



IP/ ** *« °*y«* / 




vw</ %-^y ..V^v . v 

a & ** "\.*^^V* %/""'V* %."^^V 







r'v. 





r * » ♦ • * 



4 o 
/^,\ ^.^%>o JP.tifcX 6 p 1 




4 o 

/ v*^ f, y 






$ ^ -.HUP.* I" 




^ 



V, 



V A <r^ -*Va A* % *07f^ A *-..,«< 






J/A\ ^v 



£%, 



.v 



A 



•• / . A 

■ >■ * - ^ ^ , V ^ . <*> A -r> 



f* A <> 



A 



A 



< 



A t 



"> 



^ A * / 



•> 



■^ 



° -^ A 



A A, 



/\ 



V, 



A N 



.0 



*' 



°o. *^°A°° %,*'•.;■.• .«' 

A A *i^» * v 




MEMOIR AND LETTERS 



OF 



Jenny o. White det, Bat, 



BY HER MOTHER, 

RHODA E. WHITE 



" Fair pledges of a faithful tree, 

Why do ye fall so fast? 

Your date is not so past 

But you may stay yet here awhile 

To blush and gently smile, 

And go at last." 




BOSTON: 

PATRICK DONAHOE, 

1868. 



4 \ K 

v. 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1868, by 

PATRICK DONAHOE, 

In the Clerk's office of the District Court for the District of Massachusetts. 



PREFACE. 



>5*<c 



To the Reader: 

Before unlocking for you the sacred 
door of a life now ended, and revealing 
its hidden treasures, we must ask your 
charity. We will retrace with you the 
blessed steps of our favored child, while 
our hearts are still bleeding and our 
soul heavily laden with grief for the 
loss of the departed ones. 

In yielding to the request and advice 
of many friends to do this work, we 
have also yielded to a voice within, that 
so impelled us on, that we have almost 
believed some other spirit than our own 
crushed one has guided our pen and 
given our soul strength to meet the 
demand made upon it. 

The following beautiful letters will 
explain, better than we can, the motive 

m 



IV PREFACE. 



that moved us to this task of love and 
duty. 

As a writer, forget the author of this 
imperfect memoir, and only remember 
that a mother seeks to steal unseen to 
your hearthstone, and there lay down 
her hearts treasure, the life of a child 
she loved too well, and share with you 
its memories and its fruit 



PREFACE. 



LETTER OF REVEREND B. O'REILLY, 

Adopted Brother of James W. Whtte. 

Woonsocket, November 3d, 1867. 

My dear Sister, — I profit by the very first leisure 
hour, since my return from Glen Ellen, to ask of you to 
do — and do immediately — a service, not merely to 
that brave old race to which James W. White belonged, 
but to many a noble soul among the great American 
people, by writing and publishing some memoir of his 
heroic and saintly daughter. 

Surely I am not unduly prejudiced in favor of your 
high-souled child, when I say, that among the many 
women who have left blessed memories behind them in 
this New World of ours, very few indeed have accom- 
plished more than your Jenny in the brief space of four 
years. 

It is not to her name, or for the gratification of her 
family, that I should wish a monument to be raised by 
the publication of her life and letters. That brave little 
heart, whose every secret I knew, was not one disposed 
to court public praise at any time ; and now that she has 
her surpassing reward in the possession of God, what we 
all may think or say of her can touch her but little. 

It is for our own benefit, — for the instruction of every 
succeeding generation of American youth, — that I de- 
sire to see the hidden beauties of that short but fruitful 
life made known in every household in our land. 



VI 



PREFACE. 



New Granada now weeps over that grave so suddenly 
opened, and that career of public beneficence and domes- 
tic saintliness cut short in its early and glorious prime. 
We, too, have wept ; but we have also rejoiced that one 
so pure, so energetic, so blessed of God and man, should 
have gone from our shores, like a vessel filled with sweet- 
est and most healing perfumes, to embalm with her fra- 
grance her husband's native land. 

Let us not merely rejoice and glory, but endeavor to 
imitate and hold up to others the incomparable eloquence 
of such examples. As you have been a most blessed 
wife in possessing such a husband as James W. White, 
so are you now thrice blessed in the memory of having 
borne and reared, — of having trained and sent forth to 
a life of untiring devotedness to all that is good and 
heroic, crowned by the martyrdom of charity, — such an 
apostle as Jenny White del Bal. 

What wife, what mother, ought not to envy you ? And 
how many there are who draw nearer to you since God 
has wounded the public heart by two such successive 
losses, within a few months, as the deaths of your hus- 
band and oldest daughter! 

Crown your own labors now, and perfect your merit, 
by leaving to every family in America a memorial of 
true womanly worth, and a model of all natural and 
supernatural grace and goodness, in some published 
record of your child. You will thus do a good deed, 
and leave behind you a last (perhaps not your least) 
good work. 

It will be a consolation to you, in the great twofold 



PREFACE, VII 

grief which has come upon you so unexpectedly, to make 
your daughter live once more for the edification and en- 
couragement of us all here in the United States, after 
having so well taught her how to be a beam of light and 
gladness to Santiago and its neighborhood. 

Lose not a moment, then, in preparing some memoir of 
Jenny ; and no one shall more rejoice at its appearance, 
or be more anxious to profit by its teachings, than 
Your devoted brother, 

B. O'Reilly. 



LETTER OF ARCHBISHOP McCLOSKY. 

New York, April 12th, 1868. 

Dear Mrs. White, — I have read with lively interest 
the brief notice, which has appeared in the New York 
" Evening Post," of your dear lamented daughter, Mrs. 
del Bal. 

A life so beautiful, so full of bright example, deserves 
a more extended and more enduring record ; and I hope 
what I hear is true, that a memoir is being prepared by 
yourself, or under your immediate supervision. There is 
no pen by which it can be more truthfully or skilfully 
traced than by your own. 

It will, I am sure, be most acceptable, not alone to the 
large circle of friends who, like myself, still remember 



YIII PREFACE. 

the gifted and exemplary " little Jenny White," as she 
was here seen and known under her parental roof, — or 
who, at a later date, were witnesses of her saintly virtues 
and daily acts of heroic charity in the country which, 
after marriage, became her home ; but it will be accept- 
able also to very many besides of the general public, es- 
pecially to those of her own sex, to which she was so 
truly a pride and ornament in life, and to which in death 
she has bequeathed such a beautiful example. 

Be pleased to accept once more the expression of my 
warmest sympathies, and, believe me, dear madam, 
Your sincere friend, and servant in Christ, 

John McClosky, 
Archbishop of New York. 



LETTER OF MISS MARY L. BOOTH, 

A well-known and distinguished writer. 

New York, April '29th, 1868. 

My dear Friend, — . . . . I am truly glad that 
the memoir of my friend Jenny will be given to the world. 
So pure and lovely a life ought to be chronicled for the 
benefit of the thousands of women, who only wait for pio- 
neers to march before them in a path of duty ; and surely 
no one can so fittingly perform this task as the mother 
who knew every emotion of her nature, and every step of 
her career ; who had not only watched but trained her 



PREFACE. IX 

developments, and to whose wise counsels and beautiful 
example she owed something of her blossoming into per- 
fect womanhood. 

Short as was her existence, it was running over with 
noble effort and achievement, and effected more than 
would have been done by a score of idling Methuselahs. 

That this good work may go on beyond the tomb, I am 
sure would be her most earnest wish, could she utter it to 

mortal ears Write to me whenever you 

can, and believe me 

Cordially your friend, 

Mary L. Booth. 



LETTER OF THE VICOMTE DE CHABROL, 

Intimate Friend of Cochin and other leading statesmen of France, of high-toned 
honor and principles, and acknowledged admirers of the American government. 

Paris, Rue de l'Universite, 

February 26th, 1868. 

Madam, — I had already learned, by letter from Mrs. 
Ward, of New York, the sad loss inflicted on your family, 
as well as on the entire Catholic community of New 
York, by the death of Judge White. As one of my 
friends, the young Prince de Broglie, was leaving at that 
very moment for the United States, I had given him for 
you a letter, in which I expressed my feelings of sincere 
admiration and profound respect for this great Christian 
man, and this citizen so devoted to his country. It may 



X PREFACE, 

be that M. de Broglie has not been able to find out your 
new address, and thus my letter may not have reached 
you. 

Doubtless you must have thought, madam, that I was 
ignorant of your bereavement, or that I did not feel for 
you. Do not, I beseech you, harbor such a thought for 
a moment. After the welcome given me in your country, 
and in the bosom of your family, I cannot look upon my- 
self as a total stranger either to the one or the other ; 
and I therefore claim, as a friend, a share in your over- 
whelming sorrow. 

I am convinced that the publication, contemplated by 
you, of the letters of your daughter must be both useful 
to others and beneficial to your own heart, as well as to 
the cause of our holy faith, which needs to be illustrated 
by such noble examples. I should, therefore, be most 
happy to help you in any way in this labor 

I shall also consult the most competent judges in such 
matters, and do myself the honor of sending you a frank 
and full answer. It would be — allow me to repeat it, 
madam — a great happiness to me to co-operate in such 
a good work as this. 

Believe me, I pray you, madam, everything which can 
bring back to my recollection the memory of your revered 
family, and of the happy days I spent in New York, shall 
be ever dear to me, and shall renew the feelings of grati- 
tude, of which I beg you to accept the expression. 

VlCOMTE DE CHABROL. 



Jenny C White del Bal. 

CHAPTER I. 

BIRTHPLACE OF JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL — CHILDHOOD. 

In the lovely valley of the Chenango, beautifully 
nestled in the shadow of the mountains, stands an 
honored family mansion. Fifty summers have adorned 
its grounds with beauty of tree and vine, of flower and 
shade. That old home was the pride and treasure of its 
owners ; for it was " The Nest," as they named it, in 
which they had nurtured a large family, and then sent 
them forth to honor and adorn the sphere for which they 
had educated them. 

To this "Nest" children and grandchildren were 
lovingly, one and all, recalled each year, when spring 
and summer brought back to it sunshine, birds, and 
flowers ; and long will the light of those happy days 
gleam upon their path " though the sunbeam has passed 
away." They are gone now who were the life and centre 
of that old mansion. 

It was during one of these bright sunny visits that 



4 JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL, 

Jenny C. White del Bal was born under the roof of her 
maternal grandfather, in the year 1835, September 1st, 
and welcomed with joy as the first-born grandchild in 
both families of General Thomas G. Waterman and 
Edward White, her maternal and paternal grandparents, 
both then residing in the beautiful town of Binghamton. 

General Thomas G. Waterman, a distinguished lawyer, 
and one of the leading men in the State of New York, 
married the eldest and accomplished daughter of General 
Joshua Whitney, the founder and patron of the town to 
which he gave the name of Binghamton. 

Edward White, a model Irish gentleman of the old school, 
married the eldest sister of Gerald Griffin, on which 
occasion the joy-bells of Limerick were rung to honor 
the young bride and groom. This eminently worthy 
couple were the first apostles of the Catholic Church in 
this part of the State of New York and on the borders 
of Pennsylvania. Their labors for the faith still bear 
fruit, and will long be remembered by the children of 
those to whom they secured such spiritual blessings. 

Jenny's father, James W. White (eldest son of Edward 
White), a lawyer and afterwards Judge of the Superior 
Court of the city of New York, like every member of his 
family, was a zealous and exemplary Catholic. Her 
mother, Rhoda E. White (eldest daughter of General 
Waterman), at the time of Jenny's birth was an Epis- 
copalian. 

Mrs. Waterman, a woman of fine mind and gen- 
erous nature, advised her daughter (Jenny's mother) to 
have the child baptized, when four weeks old, in the 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 5 

faith of her father, for whom Mrs. Waterman felt the 
most motherly love and profound respect. Jenny was 
baptized, at the house of Edward White, by Rev. Father 
Bradley, the day before her parents set out to return to 
their home in New York city. Two years after, her 
mother became a Catholic, and from that time began to 
teach Jenny the lessons of that holy faith. 

Lessons at two years old ? Yes, even at that early age 
the seed, good or bad, is sown and quickly takes root. 
A proof that the virtues of self-denial and obedience were 
understood by the child, at an early age, may be found 
in the following incidents. 

It was thought advisable that Jenny should go with 
her uncle to Binghamton for a short visit. She was now 
nearly three years old, and had never been separated 
from her mother, but was the petted idol of her parents' 
hearts. Yet she had learned that to love them was to 
do willingly whatever they required of her, and from the 
time she could understand what was said to her, she was 
taught acts of love, obedience, and generosity; namely, 
to give away her playthings, sometimes, when they were 
amusing her most, and was told to be good and not to 
cry if her mother was obliged to leave, because, if she 
did so, she would make her mother unhappy. How 
beautifully this first lesson was put in practice many 
years after, will be seen by and by. 

When she was told that it was best for her to go, with- 
out her mother, to visit her Grandmother White a short 
time (she was then not quite three years old), it was a 
great grief to her little heart, and a greater one to her 
2 



6 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

mother ; yet she saw the preparations made for her de- 
parture without complaint. 

Her father and mother desired to divert her mind, and 
took her, the night before she left home, to the then most 
attractive place of amusement in New York, — Niblo's 
Garden. It was filled with exquisite plants and flowers ; 
orange and lemon groves persuading the beholder that 
he had, with a fairy wand, been suddenly transported to 
the land of the ever-summer zone. A thousand lamps 
of every color shed a soft and bewitching light upon 
every little grotto and bower, and the long-arched vista 
that cheated the eye, doubling and redoubling its length 
to an interminable extent by the arrangement of mirrors 
at the end of the garden, will be well remembered by 
our New Yorkers, who thirty years ago enjoyed this pure 
and luxurious place of recreation and amusement. 

Walking from their residence in White Street to this 
Garden, on this summer evening, Jenny held her mother's 
hand all the way tightly grasped, and thought her so ab- 
sorbed in the conversation with her father that she was 
not observed, so she gave way to her feelings, — pressed 
and repressed, and kissed it again and again, and held 
it to her lips till at last her tears fell fast upon it. It 
was with difficulty her mother forebore from snatching 
her to her arms and responding to the feelings of the 
child ; but it was better not to encourage her loneliness 
when it seemed best for her to leave home for a while. 

The first exclamation Jenny made, on entering the 
Enchanted Garden, was, "O mamma, is this like 
heaven ? " 



JENNY C WHITE DEL BAL. 7 

The next day, when her parents accompanied her to 
the boat, and left her with her Uncle John White on the 
upper deck, she stood upon a bench by his side, looking 
out upon the wharf and tossing kisses with her hand to 
them, appearing quite happy. The moment the steam- 
boat was out of sight of those on shore, the little creature 
burst into an uncontrolled fit of crying, and hid her face 
for half an hour in her uncle's bosom. Quite distressed 
by this outburst of feeling, he endeavored to pacify her 
with promises of every kind of amusement and pleasure \ 
yet still she sobbed and could not be comforted. 

At last he said, " Why, Jenny, if you had cried when 
we were first on the boat, I would not have taken you 
away. I thought you were very happy and wished to 
come with me." 

" I would not cry before mamma, Uncle John," she 
answered, "because it would make her feel badly; but 
now I cannot help it." 

This same generous nature, in after years, enabled her 
to hide her sorrows from those around her when she knew 
they would give them pain. 

When she reached Binghamton, her grandparents and 
every one who saw her were surprised by her remarkable 
intelligence, particularly in all that related to religious 
duties or matters of conscience, and her lovely gentleness 
of manner won all hearts. 

Her young uncle, William Waterman, only four years her 
senior, was her playmate, and loved her as an own sister. 
In play she was a hearty participator in everything like 
frolic, and acted the part of a young lady to perfection. 



8 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

While she sang and improvised, accompanying herself on 
a corn-stalk guitar made by him, he would listen for hours 
entranced ; but, boylike, could not resist the temptation 
to tease her occasionally. The only opportunity he could 
find was when she knelt before her "idols," as he called 
them ; then she clasped her little hands and looked so de- 
murely attentive, he could not help trying to distract 
her attention, and more than once his mother reproved 
him for his attempts to cheat her into disobeying the rule 
to abstain from meat on Friday ! 

Her obedience was well tested on this visit, where 
every one desired to please her and gratify her taste. 
Her Grandmother White wrote to her parents : " Jenny 
is the sweetest child I ever saw. Why, James, Rhoda is 
rearing a saint for heaven ! Nothing can induce her to 
violate any commands ever given her by her mother, or 
do anything she thinks mamma would not like." 

Again, she wrote : " I take charge of the church and 
altar. Jenny is very fond of helping me. She can carry 
some of the things from the house to the church when 
we have a priest here to say mass, and this delights 
her. But you remember, Rhoda, how fond of teasing 
your Uncle Vincent is. # He loves to catch Jenny on the 
wa}r, and ask her questions about the ceremonies of the 
Church, in order to hear her wise answers. The other 
day we were coming home from a baptism. Jenny's 
arms were full. Among other things she carried the 

* Judge Vincent Whitney was very liberal in his ideas of Catholicity, 
and much attached to Jenny and her family. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 9 

salt-cellar. The little rogue saw her uncle coming, and 
hid it under her apron. 'Ah, Jenny,' said he, 'what 
have you there ? ' laughing immoderately, for he saw her 
hide something. Out it came ! Then followed his ques- 
tions, ' How can salt baptize a child ? ' etc., etc. But the 
little dame stood her ground heroically ; no ridicule could 
make her deny her faith." 

Before her uncle returned to New York, after this visit, 
he went with Mrs. Waterman and Miss Whitney to 
Saratoga. Jenny accompanied them. She attracted 
much attention. Exceedingly graceful and full of ani- 
mation, she danced like a fairy, and even at that age 
sang some songs sweetly. We remember how much she 
amused Archbishop Hughes with her coquettish grace in 
dancing. The purity of her language and her beautiful 
articulation were remarked by every one who heard her 
speak. 

A poet at Saratoga was so captivated by her spiritual 
yet childlike face and her lady-like manner, that he ex- 
pressed his admiration of her in a beautiful poem, ad- 
dressed to the child, which he gave her. Years after, we 
were told, he tried in vain to find her, but, forgetting her 
name and residence, could not trace her. Should these 
pages meet his eye, her family wish to acknowledge the 
compliment, the remembrance of which is now more than 
ever agreeable to them. 

Before Jenny was six years old she perfectly understood 
and practised self-imposed penance. When she felt she 
deserved punishment for any offence of which her mother 



10 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

was ignorant, she immediately administered it to herself. 
Her mother often saw her throw aside her playthings and 
with guilty, downcast look walk away and seat herself in 
a corner with her face to the wall. 

Her greatest horror was to be immersed in cold water. 
When she was still very young, the chambermaid found 
her in her room, down upon her knees before a large 
basin of icy cold water, into which she was dipping her 
little head, curls and all, to the very bottom, each time 
she came up saying, " This is to make me dood ; this is 
to make me dood ; " and down again and again, till pre- 
vented by the servant. 

Her mother remarked that frequently when going up- 
stairs she would turn her head back and shake her long 
ringlets defiantly, whispering something indistinctly, 
"Chew," "chew," "chew." 

" Jenny, why do you do so ? " inquired her mother ; 
"it is not lady-like." 

" Mamma, I am spitting on the devil ; he will try to 
make me naughty, and I say to him, Get away, get 
away." 

In years after, good Bishop Byrne, who was for a time 
her spiritual director, loved to tease her. It was only 
necessary for him to say, " Go away, go away, chew, chew, 
chew," to make her hide her face and run away. 

At five years of age, Jenny showed such remarkable 
talent for music that she was allowed to amuse herself 
by playing upon the piano by ear, not deeming it prudent 
to tax her mind (already too precocious) to learn by note. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 11 

Her mother played and sang ; and, during her daily prac- 
tising, Jenny always sat by her side, listening with the 
greatest attention and delight. 

At six her mother taught her music, and the child so 
loved sacred music that she learned to chant the vespers 
in Latin correctly, and sang with so much devotion and 
feeling, that no one could listen to her without pleasure 
and edification. 

One day, in her mother's absence, Bishop Byrne called 
to the house, bringing with him two or three priests. 
Jenny was playing with her dolls in the play-room, but 
ran down to meet him, with her dress turned up around 
her waist to represent the busy housewife. " She en- 
tered," said the bishop, "with all the dignity and address 
of a lady of the world, and welcomed us as her mother 
would have done. ' Come, Jenny,' said I, ' give us some 
music before we go.' Up she climbed with difficulty 
upon the piano-stool, and sang several of the vesper 
hymns in Latin, with all the ease in the world, remarkably 
well ; but, getting down, she, for the first time, observed 
her dress. l Oh my ! oh my ! Jenny,' said I, ' what will 
be done now ? ' " The good bishop loved to repeat this 
little circumstance, and could long after enjoy the re- 
membrance of her perplexity on that occasion. She had 
forgotten her own appearance in her effort and desire to 
entertain them. 

A friend — Mrs. Judge Bosworth — writes to us : "I 
think the most lovely trait in Jenny's character was her 
self-sacrificing disposition — her forgetfulness of herself 
to do her duty or to please others. I remember, when 



12 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 

she was quite young, I was at your house one afternoon. 
Jenny was engaged on a piece of work which she was 
very anxious to finish that day. A poor man was very 
ill, and needed some clothing ; you desired Jenny to lay 
aside her work and help us to finish the articles needed. 
It was a great disappointment, we knew ; but she laid 
aside her work without showing the slightest mark of 
regret. I often gave it as an example of the cheerful 
performance of duty." 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 13 



CHAPTER II. 



CHILDHOOD — CONTINUED. 



The family increased, and Jenny became more and 
more a beautiful example to the younger members of the 
household, who looked upon her as their little Guardian 
Angel, without whose presence they could not be happy. 
One of her little brothers, three and a half years old, who 
died soon after, lamenting her absence from home, in- 
quired with much feeling, "Mamma, when will sister 
Jenny come home ; I am so sorry she is away ; I feel to 
cry, I love her so." The little fellow went every night, 
till she returned, and kissed her pillow and any article of 
hers that came in his way. 

With children of all ages, who knew her, Jenny was a 
favorite. When ten years of age she was chosen Queen 
of the May, by the unanimous vote of her companions. 
They met at her house on the eve of May, twenty or 
thirty in number, and announced the election, — a surprise 
to her which her blushing cheek could not conceal from 
them. The following day they returned, dressed in 
white dresses, with garlands of flowers, to do honor to 
their chosen one. A throne was erected, over which 
were clouds of white and blue lace reaching to the ceil- 
ing. The maids of honor knelt before her, declaring in 



14 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

song " the Queen, the loveliest flower of spring," while 
another placed upon her head a crown of white roses and 
conducted her to the throne, which she ascended with 
the sweetest modesty ; and then, with mock dignity and 
imperial power, gave forth her mandates for the coming 
year, concluding with, " Let every subject in my realm 
henceforth seek to make themselves and others happy." 

This was received with uproarious approbation, and 
wa« followed by singing and dancing (garland dances 
having been prepared for the occasion). Pretty offerings 
were laid at her feet. Among them was a poem com- 
memorating the happy occasion, and setting forth in 
brilliant colors the virtues of the newly made queen. 
And " better than she knew " did the poetess with pro- 
phetic truth foretell that she should reign the queen of many 
hearts and climes ! Strangely did the childhood life of 
Jenny foreshadow her future ! 

In other years these flowers of her soul — generosity, 
obedience, piety, and humility — grew deeper tinted, and 
shed a wider fragrance around. They early bloomed, 
and have left their seed to adorn the earth for us. 

The remarkable proficiency Jenny made in music at- 
tracted much attention. Her voice was peculiarly 
sweet, and her whole soul expressed in it. She heard 
Jenny Lind sing, and desired very much to sing like her, 
and daily prayed that she might have the gift of song. 
Not for vanity, for she had been taught that God had 
given her a talent for music to be used for a holy motive, 
and that perhaps another would have made even better 
progress than she had done. This she believed and re- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 15 

peated often, when praised by friends who, far and near, 
sent for her to play and sing for them. 

During the summer, about this time, the family went 
to White Plains. It was her habit to go every day to a 
beautiful grove near the house and practise her voice. 
Before she had sung Jenny Lind's bird-song there many 
times, flocks of birds came warbling around her, in the 
high branches over her head, and answered her call. 
She listened to them until she could so perfectly imitate 
them, that, at any time she went to the grove, she could 
call them around her by her own sweet warbling ; and all 
who heard her sing the bird-song, wondered how she 
could have learned those sweet notes. 

Jenny was to her parents not only the loved child, but 
companion, — with her mother an inseparable one. They 
played, and sang, and read, and studied together, sur- 
rounded by the younger children, who were (with the 
exception of the infant) always in the parlor, where their 
mother taught them. 

Although no burthen of teaching was put upon her 
while she pursued her own studies under her mother's 
tuition, Jenny had acquired a motherly care over the little 
ones, and it amused the family to hear her say, " Mamma, 
our children must do so and so ! " 

In the strict observance of their religious duties, Jenny 
was a watchful guide. They playfully declared there was 
no chance for turning over in bed for a second nap if she 
called, " Come, children, up, up, up. You know mamma 
said you must go to mass this morning ; it is a holiday ! " 



16 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

And away they went, sometimes when it was scarcely 
daybreak, to early mass, with their unmerciful little 
Guardian Angel, their eyes half closed in sleep. 

And then at prayers, even the pious little Nell, after- 
wards a nun, would rebel sometimes, and say, " Mamma, 
when we go with Jenny, to say prayers for you and papa, 
she prays for everybody, — the whole human family, I do 
believe." And another, less zealous, would add, " She 
keeps us too long, mamma ; " at which the little culprit 
would only smile ; but not one sinner less would be 
prayed for the next day. 

If Jenny was zealous in religious matters, she was no 
less earnest in everything that belonged to the lawful 
pleasures of social life, nor did she deem them unimpor- 
tant. She entered into every kind of mirthful enjoyment 
with her whole heart, giving life and animation to every 
circle by her very presence wherever she went. 

Sometimes, when she saw her parents more thoughtful 
than usual, in the evening, and suspected they were de- 
pressed by some new and pressing care, she would slip 
away a few moments, and then return to the parlor with 
the little troop of children dressed in costume ; and, in- 
troducing them by a suitable speech as minstrels or 
strolling players, they would all enter into the spirit of the 
assumed characters, and sing and improvise with inimi- 
table humor, chasing away every vestige of serious thought 
from young and old for the rest of the evening. The 
parents and friends who enjoyed the benefit of this happy 
influence will not soon forget these occasions, which 
were not unfrequent. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 17 

One of Jenny's young aunts, near her own age, her 

companion, and loved as a sister, many a time joined 

in these representations with a rare zest and talent. 

The night before she left home to enter the Convent 

of the Visitation as a novice, she and Jenny endeavored 

to chase away the pain of her departure in this way, and 

for the time succeeded admirably. 
3 



18 JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 



CHAPTER III. 

GIRLHOOD. 

When sixteen years of age, Jenny went with her 
parents, for the first time since her infancy, to a water- 
ing place — Newport. It was crowded with the gay and 
fashionable, the wise and foolish, of many cities, the 
grave and learned, and the weary invalid. 

The Ocean House was a little world of itself, offering 
many attractions, as well as temptations. 

Mr. and Mrs. White and their young daughter had 
just arrived. Passing through the hall, a brother lawyer 
met them, and, after a salutation, offered Mr. White a 
ticket for a reserved seat in the lecture-room for that 
evening, saying to him, "The eloquent Mr. Lavine speaks 
to-night; there will be a crowd ; you must hear him." 

It was immediately after the great crisis in the " Know- 
Nothing " movement, when the mob had been incited by 
Mr. L. and others to the burning of St. Augustine's 
Church, in Philadelphia. It lay in ruins. But one shaft 
of the wall behind the altar remained, high above the 
smouldering ashes. Upon it was an Eye (the centre of 
the altar-piece), and under it the words, " God Seeth." 
Like the writing upon Belshazzar's wall, at the feast, it 
struck terror into the hearts of many passers-by. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 19 

" Excuse me," said Mr. White ; " I could not accept 
your invitation. I would not listen to Mr. Lavine, and 
do not even wish to see him." 

" Why not ? " inquired Mr. B. 

" His speeches incited the mob to desecrate the church, 
and may yet lead to animosities and bloodshed." 

The conversation continued. While they were speak- 
ing, Jenny and her mother passed on to their rooms, 
dressed, and went to the parlor. Here they found sev- 
eral New York friends, who gathered around them, and 
asked Jenny to sing " The Last Rose of Summer." 

At the lower end of this large drawing-room, sat an 
interesting-looking invalid lady, in a large easy-chair, 
and by her side her beautiful young daughter. As soon 
as Jenny had finished the last words of this exquisite 
song, — which she sang with touching pathos and purity 
of tone, — the young girl sprang from her chair, and, 
meeting Jenny just rising from the piano, flung her arms 
around her neck, saying tenderly, "You have charmed 
my dear, sick mamma. Do come to her, and let her 
give you a kiss for it." 

Jenny and Mrs. White followed her, and were intro- 
duced to Mrs. Lavine, and gave their own names in 
return. Every one present was moved by the scene. 

Just then, a tall, fine-looking, gentlemanly man entered 
the room. " Papa ! " exclaimed Loo Lavine, "you must 
hear Jenny White sing 'The Last Rose of Summer/ 
You never heard anything half so sweet." 

Jenny sang it again. Mr. Lavine seemed lost in thought, 
yet in wrapt attention, while she was singing, and left the 



20 JENNY C. WRITE DEL SAL. 

room the moment her voice ceased, returning, however, 
soon, with a beautiful piece of poetry, in which he called 
her " the Queen of Song " — "a voice from heaven." 

One of the prima-donnas of the opera, then a great fa- 
vorite, was at Newport, whose father came to the parlor to 
hear Jenny sing, and expressed the highest admiration 
for her voice, saying she possessed rare talent for music 
and a remarkable voice. 

While Jenny was blushingly wearing these laurels, and 
thanking her admirer for his poem, her father entered, 
and joined the circle that surrounded her. Remembering 
her father's remark that he did not wish to see Mr. L., 
to surprise him she turned playfully towards him, and 
said, "My father, Mr. White, Mr. Lavine." 

This little incident would be of small import to the 
reader but for the consequences. Polite words were ex- 
changed, and a kinder feeling enkindled by them, between 
the gentlemen. That afternoon, the newly introduced 
party rode out together upon the beach in an open car- 
riage, and from that day were inseparable during the 
following two weeks. The day when they parted Mr. 
Lavine expressed the hope that a friendship such as 
theirs would never be broken. " It will not be my fault 
if it be not stronger." He then added in a whisper, with 
great earnestness, " Mr. White, I regret the part I have 
taken against Catholics. Will you say to Bishop Hughes 
for me that I deplore that I ever raised my voice against 
him or any other Catholic, and that I promise never to 
do so again?" 

The last day that they all rode out together, a few 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 21 

hours before leaving Newport, Loo Lavine, on alighting, 
whispered in Jenny's ear, " Jenny, will you pray for me ? 
I would like to be just like you." Jenny did not forget 
her promise. They became devoted friends, and ever 
continued so. The daughter of Mr. Lavine from that 
day was in heart a Catholic, and has since entered the 
Church. We have reason to believe that her father died 
desiring that faith. 

It was a happy time, this first glimpse of society in the 
outer world, to Jenny, when " her heart promised all that 
her fancy painted " of the bright and beautiful in it. 

After this little vacation of pleasure, Jenny returned to 
her studies with renewed application. 

During her leisure hours, "to instruct the ignorant" 
was one of the acts of mercy of which she was very fond. 
More than one of the servants were taught to read and 
write by her. One of her pupils, whose history is a ro- 
mantic one, will remember with lifelong gratitude the 
valuable instructions she received. 

Madame Va Bien's (as we shall call her) dress-making 
establishment was one patronized by the most fashion- 
able and recklessly extravagant of New York ladies. 
Among her sewing-girls was one who worked faithfully 
and uncomplainingly, early and late, till Saturday night; 
but the clock had struck twelve, and she rose to leave. 
Madame Va Bien expostulated. It was not possible to 
disappoint her customers, 2nd the girls must finish the 
dresses. No inducement could persuade Kate to work 

on Sunday morning ; but, with her departure, she re- 
3* 



22 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

ceived her dismissal from her employer. She was very 
poor, and this was a severe trial. 

In vain she sought another place as dress-maker, so she 
offered herself as nurse in Mrs. White's family until one 
could be procured. Her beauty and ladylike manner 
attracted the attention of a gentleman, very much her 
superior, who had seen her come and go to her work 
during her stay with Madame Va Bien, and from this 
person he learned that her goodness and piety exceeded 
her personal charms. 

At first, she would not receive his attentions, feeling 
her inferiority ; but, after a year's probation, to test his 
love, he was accepted. Being a foreigner, and not under- 
standing English well, he had not discovered the young 
wife's deficiencies in education until several months after 
their marriage, when, to his great sorrow, he learned that 
she could neither read nor write ! 

To Jenny she opened this painful secret of her heart, 
and craved advice what to do to remedy this evil. With- 
out delay, Jenny commenced a course of instruction, and 
encouraged her to be faithful in the performance of every 
duty that could make his home happy. 

He gave up all society to hide her ignorance and spare 
her feelings, — a sacrifice and devotedness appreciated 
by Kate, which strengthened her will and quickened her 
intellect. Her progress was, therefore, remarkable. 

A year only elapsed after their marriage before her 
husband fell a victim to fever; and the young widow 
received a letter in due time, from Europe, from her 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 23 

father-in-law, urging her to go to his home, and become 
the loved daughter of their sorrowing hearts. 

Here was a new motive to pursue her studies with Jen- 
ny with redoubled exertion. She remained two months 
longer, daily going to Jenny's studio, where she sat two 
or three hours by her side, day after day, docile as a 
child, looking up to her young teacher with mingled 
veneration and admiration, her own loveliness heightened 
by the shade of sorrow that had fallen upon her beautiful 
face. 

With sad forebodings and a sinking heart Kate parted 
from her little benefactress, to go to her husband's home. 

Ever striving to conceal from her new friends the 
weary weight that lay upon her heart, — her want of 
education, — her health began to decline. But steamer 
after steamer brought her hundreds of written pages of 
instruction, which she eagerly devoured, like one in 
extreme hunger. 

Thrown into society to which she had been unaccus- 
tomed, it was difficult at first to her to conform with ease 
to its etiquette and requirements ; but even on these 
points she had received lessons from Jenny. And who 
will be surprised to learn that, after two or three years, 
these instructions were so blessed that the young widow 
no longer blushed for ignorance, for which she had at 
one time nearly died broken-hearted? 

Now, so pleasing were her manner and conversation 
that she was obliged to entertain foreign visitors at her 
father-in-law's house. On account of her knowledge of 
both English and French (the latter language she had 



24 JENNY C. WRITE DEL SAL, 

learned since her arrival in Europe), they found her a 
delightful companion. 

The struggle to improve, and the effort to conceal her 
trouble, rendered Kate's delicacy a cause of alarm. The 
doctor finding it difficult to overcome the debility, for 
which he could find no apparent cause, advised her to go 
to Baden-Baden, for change of air and scene. Here, veiled 
in deep mourning, she sought the seclusion of her room ; 
but she was forced to mingle in the crowd, and soon be- 
came an unwilling belle ! Of this she wrote to Jenny, to 
whom she confided every change of circumstance, and 
from whom she still obtained letters filled with instruc- 
tion and advice. 

Mrs. White allowed Jenny to join, with her, a benev- 
olent society belonging to St. Francis Xavier's Church, 
in order to teach her to visit the poor in their homes. 
This society obliged its members to aid the poor with 
money and work, and every young lady must, in company 
with a married lady, visit their poor twice a week. 

In a short time Jenny's poor looked for her coming 
with impatience, and crowds flocked to her house begging 
"just to see the dear young lady, if only for a few min- 
utes;" for every one of whom she always had a kind 
welcome. 

It was her custom to go very often to communion, and 
every morning to mass; and, on her way home, three 
days in the week she made it a rule to call on the sick. 

Among the sick whom she visited, there were often 
patients whose sickness and homes were very repulsive 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 25 

to her ; but her charity overcame her repugnance, and 
she did not hesitate to become the good Samaritan when 
it became necessary. One poor woman, who was afflicted 
with cancer, received her attention for weeks, and died 
blessing "the angel." The only reward she ever asked, 
she received, namely, " Pray for me ; and pray for my 
parents." 

At the church which she attended for years (St. Francis 
Xavier's), she knew by sight every aged earnestly devout 
poor person who came often to offer their prayers at the 
foot of the Cross ; and in all her own little troubles or 
need, her faith in prayer was unlimited. She would go 
to them and whisper, " Pray for my intention." These 
poor people were playfully called " Jenny's saints " by 
the children, who joked her a good deal about them. 

This extraordinary love for prayer, and her faith in it, 
made her call the servants to her room daily, and give 
them religious instruction, and then say prayers with and 
for them. We need not add that " Miss Jenny " was in 
their eyes all that was good and beautiful. 

"The children," as she called her brothers and sisters, 
collected every day in her room, and she knelt with them 
before her oratory, to pray all together for their father 
and mother, — her mother joining them in this devotion. 

When her father bade them good-by every morning, 
leaving home, his last words were invariably, " Pray for 
me, my dear children, with your dear mother. I rely 
upon your prayers." 

While Jenny was a devotee to her religion in the exer- 
cise of her devotions and works of mercy, she was no less 



26 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

scrupulous in what the same faith required of her in her 
duty to society. 

Invitations to parties, balls, receptions, and dinners 
were always accepted with pleasure when her parents 
could accompany her ; and, as many will testify, she was 
rarely gifted to adorn the sphere in which she moved. 

On these occasions she was invariably surrounded by 
a large circle of admirers, who were enthusiastic in their 
admiration and love of her, for she drew hearts within the 
influence of her own soul with a magnetic power which 
young and old acknowledged ; and yet so modestly did 
she receive their homage that she made them feel that 
the credit was due to their kindness of heart more than 
merit of her own. 

She conversed with fascinating sprightliness in several 
languages, charming every listener with the enthusiasm 
that beamed in her countenance while speaking, and im- 
parted its light like a sunbeam to all around her. 

The most attractive gift in her conversation was the 
faculty she possessed of drawing out in confidential ex- 
pression the ideas and thoughts of the most reserved and 
taciturn ; and, added to this, was the charm of listening 
with interest to whatever engaged their attention. Not 
alone those who were congenial and attractive in society 
felt her influence. It was often remarked that gentlemen 
who were called disagreeable bores by most young ladies, 
and who would walk through a dance with them in a 
dogged, treadmill solemnity, with Jenny were pleasant; 
and the zest with which they entered into the pleasures 
of the quadrille in her company attracted attention. She 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 27 

invariably cast a spell of her own upon them, and left 
them persuaded they had been most agreeable ! 

Knowing with what spirit she entered the lawful pleas- 
ures of society, she feared that fatigue, after her return 
home, might cause her distractions at her night prayers. 
Therefore, after her toilet was completed for a ball or 
party (it was invariably one of great taste and suitability), 
in full evening dress, it was her rule to kneel before her 
oratory, just before starting from home, and say her 
night prayers. 

No one could look at her, at such times, and not see 
that she was all forgetful of the anticipated pleasure, 
which her youth and innocence robed in brilliant colors. 
Often her oldest brother, who knew the carriage was at 
the door, would call her in vain ! At last, when she 
rose and robed to leave, and approached the door, Frank 
would run ahead, calling out, " Children, children, shut 
every bedroom door, or Jenny will stop at every oratory 
she' passes ! We will have the stations all the way to 
the hall-door." Once at the party, no one was more 
merry, more gay than she. 



28 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



CHAPTER IV. 



GIRLHOOD — CONTINUED. 



The younger students of " Castle Comfort " had made 
good progress in the ordinary branches, and had passed 
an examination in rhetoric, natural philosophy, and his- 
tory. They read and spoke French, and were studying 
music. Jenny had added to the above the study of 
belles-lettres, theoretical music, and Italian. 

Since she was nine years of age she had read twenty- 
five pages a day in a course of reading which she had 
been obliged to follow according to the direction of her 
mother. It included ancient and modern history, biog- 
raphy, and poetry. This system of daily regularity in 
kind and quantity of well selected reading, had given her 
a fund of general knowledge, which cannot be acquired 
by the ordinary mode of school education, where so little 
time is allowed for literature. Her mind and imagination 
were consequently more cultivated than is usual at her 
age, and she was prepared to profit by the advantages 
which the refined society of her home offered her. 

It occurred to her mother that she ought to study 
Spanish. It was a beautiful language, and one which 
would please Jenny ; yet Mrs. White had a secret desire 
(without good reason) that her daughters should not 



JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL, 29 

marry Spaniards ; and would not a knowledge of their 
language lead them to form attachments to which she 
felt so much opposed? In spite of the warning voice, 
her judgment remained firm that Jenny ought to study 
Spanish. 

Mrs. White had studied from the first year of her married 
life, and took lessons from the best masters in everything 
which she intended to teach her children. She consulted 
her husband on this point, who was ever ready to aid and 
encourage her in the pursuit of knowledge. He approved 
of obtaining a good professor of Spanish at once. A 
Spanish gentleman, who had graduated with honor at 
the University of Paris, was selected, who now came 
daily to teach Mrs. White and Jenny Spanish in a class 
together. 

They became interested and progressed rapidly. Spring 
came, and found them eager to pursue the study without 
interruption. Summer rest and summer recreation could 
not be thought of, if it would interfere with that object. 
Therefore, the quiet little village of West Farms was 
chosen as their retreat from gay life for the season. 

A neat cottage, with a pretty greenhouse attached, 

was tastefully furnished, and the family removed to it on 

the first of May. Surrounded by music, books, flowers, 

and every comfort which heart and mind could desire, 

provided by the best of fathers for their enjoyment, and 

then within the shadow and protection of the Catholic 

Church, there seemed nothing wanting to make that home 

a paradise ; and yet there was within it one little heart in 

trouble for a time ! 
4 



30 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

A gentleman of wealth and good name had seen Jenny, 
and was resolved, if possible, to find favor in her eyes. 
It could not be. Her younger sisters were often amused 
at her alarm when he was in sight. When his carriage 
and horses were seen approaching the house, which an- 
nounced a visit of a day or two, Jenny flew to her room, 
and, throwing herself upon her knees, begged God to 
save her from ever being deluded into the weakness of 
giving her hand without her heart. 

That blessed summer ! Flooded with the sunlight of 
hope and joy, how it rises before us in all its freshness 
and bloom ! Would that we could now longer gaze upon 
the gorgeous tints of that lovely vision of the past ! But 
time cries " Onward ! " and we must not pause here. 

We leave them awhile with the flowers of spring, and 
look in upon another scene. 

In the tropical zone, on the Isthmus of Panama, is the 
little town of Santiago, situated ten miles from the Pacific. 
It had, for some time, enjoyed undisturbed repose in 
that lovely valley, where it revelled in its perpetual 
summer. 

Many of the sons of the old Castilian families had be- 
come dissatisfied with the weary monotony of inactive 
life, which so well pleased their ancestors, and yearned 
to go abroad. Among them was Bernardino del Bal, the 
only son of Senor don Santiago del Bal, one of the wealth- 
iest of the old Spanish aristocracy in Columbia. 

After much persuasion, Don Bernardino at last gained 
permission to leave home ; and his sisters were busily 
and with sad hearts preparing for his departure from this 



JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 31 

enchanting valley, to go with several others to the United 
States and to Europe to study and to travel. 

The day had arrived to set out. Don Santiago gave 
his son his blessing, and this advice : " My son, I ask of 
you three things. Never associate with your inferiors ; 
never yield to the temptation of leaving forever your 
native country ; return to me as you leave me, — pure 
and good." 

The horses and mules were at the door, and the party 
of young men departed. With a swelling heart, Bernar- 
dino bade adieu to home. The lovely valley was soon left 
behind in the dim distance, as slowly the cavalcade wound 
its way through the mountains to the Atlantic shore ; and 
visions of the New World, soon to open upon him, filled 
his mind with a strange delight. 

In the month of March or April the little party reached 
New York, and went to the St. Nicholas Hotel, where, 
for a few days, they passed their time pleasantly enough. 

It was a strange contrast — that ever-moving, tempest- 
tossed, care-worn looking sea of human beings, constantly 
before their eyes, to the pleasure-seeking, effeminate, idle, 
easy-going population of the sunny Isthmus. But there 
was a spirit within our young stranger that had broken 
loose from the enchantments of indolence that lull to 
sleep, and this scene of activity and earnest intent better 
suited it. 

New York and its allurements he soon found too dis- 
tracting, and he sought a place where he could pursue a 
course of study, as he thought, to better advantage. 

A cousin, who had come to the States a year before, 



32 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAIm 

proposed the little village of West Farms as a retired 
spot, where he could soon acquire the English language, 
under the instruction of a professor, of whom many 
Spaniards spoke highly, and afterwards he could return 
to the city to finish his education. The young stranger 
acceded to the proposition, and arrived there a short time 
before the family took the cottage. 

He found the place without any attraction until he was 
introduced to Jenny. He had heard of her from his 
cousin as "a most charming and accomplished young 
lady, with whom every one was pleased ; " and so extrav- 
agant were the praises bestowed upon her that his im- 
patience to become acquainted with the family, in order 
to see her, amused his companions greatly. 

He had gained an introduction. It seemed a good 
opportunity for Jenny and her mother to speak Spanish, 
and an equal advantage to the young Spaniard to learn 
English. His gentlemanly bearing and unobtrusive 
manner soon made him a favorite visitor, and it was not 
long before it was arranged that he should come three 
afternoons in the week, and speak Spanish and English 
an hour ; after which the time was passed pleasantly with 
the family, where music, dancing, and conversation were 
the amusements of the evening. 

Summer came, and passed rapidly. It was like one 
bright, joyous clay <*f happiness and pleasure to the young 
people and a delight to the parents. But to Senor del 
Bal, with the autumn and the departure of the family to 
New York, came gloomy hours of discontent. His books 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 33 

were often laid aside, because he could not fix his atten- 
tion upon them, and his peace had flown ! 

His visits were frequent to the family in New York, 
and always welcome ; but he noticed that no opportunity 
was lost to show him that the same warm hospitality was 
extended to all strangers who were their guests, if, like 
him, they were far removed from their families. He also 
remarked, with anxious heart, that Jenny had many ad- 
mirers, and some he thought more favored than the 
others. One, he was assured, by an acquaintance of the 
family, would be the accepted ; and if so . . . 

A year passed, and still he hoped on ; for as yet he 
thought her free. Afraid to venture to declare his love, 
lest it should be too soon, and afraid to wait, lest the prize 
which to him had now become of all the earth the most 
valuable, and which he sought to gain with all the 
ardor of his heart and soul, would be snatched from him. 
All unconscious of her power, Jenny became more and 
more a necessary part of his existence. Her mother ob- 
served that her every look and word interested Bernar- 
dino. Alarmed and troubled, she drew from him the 
secret of his heart ; and, with all the delicacy possible 
not to wound his pride, assured him that Jenny had never 
spoken of him as a lover, although her respect and friend- 
ship were great for him, no doubt ; that it would be im- 
possible for her parents, much as they respected and 
admired him, to consent to give their child to one whose 
home lay so far away from them ; that she had been so 
tenderly loved, her heart would break if she were so far 
separated from her family. Her mother implored him to 

4* 



34 JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 

forget her, and not to speak of his love to Jenny ; and 
she promised that this interview, painful to both, should 
be known only to him and to her. 

Poor Bernardino was overcome by the unexpected dis- 
appointment of his highest and holiest earthly hope, and 
confessed that to cease to love her would be impossible 
so long as she was not another's ; but his honor forbade 
that he should force his suit against the will of her 
parents ; and he would go away to travel, and try to 
conceal from her at least his ardent but hopeless love. 

He left, a few days after this interview, and travelled over 
the States, vainly endeavoring to occupy his mind with 
other thoughts. 

Meantime, others came, acceptable to the parents, and 
sought the hand of their daughter \ but all unavailingly ! 
Wherever Bernardino went, the image of her who had 
become to him the star of life followed, and neither time 
nor distance could separate him from her. 

He returned to his studies, sick, downcast, and 
troubled ; but, by an energy unexampled, gained the 
highest honors, in spite of these wearing distractions. 
He could not but look forward, beyond these doubts and 
fears, with hope to a beacon light he saw in the distance ; 
and to gain it he would try to make himself worthy. So 
he labored on. 

He had kept his promise for months, and had not 
spoken of his love to Jenny ; but he would now ven- 
ture to offer her some gifts which he had selected for 
her. They were politely declined .... Yet not, he 
thought, without an unconcealed regret and winning 



JENNY C, WHITE DEL BAL. 35 

sweetness, as if sorry for the wound she was inflict- 
ing. 

New Year's Day came again when he might call with 
the crowd, and not betray his heart. He called. " Jenny 
looked like a little queen," he said, surrounded by her 
worshippers. She smiled on all, entertaining them with 
dignity and a captivating grace that charmed him. Ber- 
nardino stood at a little distance from her, after his salu- 
tation, gazing upon her in silent admiration. She can 
never be mine, he thought. His head grew dizzy, and 
he left the parlor just in time to avoid fainting ; but not 
unobserved by Jenny. 

The following summer he had finished his English and 
French studies, and his father had written to him, ad- 
vising him to go to Europe and spend two years travelling 
for pleasure and improvement. To go, and not tell Jenny 
that he worshipped her, would be impossible, although 
he knew he would meet no encouragement. 

He asked for an opportunity, which her mother no 
longer denied him, who felt truly pained to see him so 
resolved, believing that he must be again disappointed. 
He was eloquent. His beautiful language aided him, 
and yet "he could not tell her half." She listened, and 
every Word sank deep into her heart ; yet, with a sad 
countenance and scarcely audible voice, she told him she 
could not give him hope ... It was too far away .... 
How could she go? 

The story is soon told. He left, and again returned ; 
and time showed him that Jenny had loved him better 
than she thought. Her parents, learning that her happi- 



36 JENNY C. WHITE DEL £AL. 

ness was involved, no longer withheld their consent ; and 
the announcement of the engagement caused much sur- 
prise that one so sought for at home should have been 
given to a stranger. He proved himself worthy of the prize. 

We have related these difficulties in the way of the 
engagement, because we believe it to have been the 
will of God, in spite of them, that she should leave all 
and go to a strange land. 

Now that Bernardino's new happiness filled his heart 
to overflowing with joy, it was hard to think of going to 
Europe. Two years' absence from the chosen one ? the 
cherished one ? Who could expect it ? Not even his 
aged father, he thought ; and he found but little difficulty 
in persuading Jenny's father that the study of law at 
Cambridge, Massachusetts, would be more advantageous 
to him than a trip to Europe. 

After a month's enjoyment, he left New York, and en- 
tered the law school. Six months had passed, and with 
joyous anticipation the young people looked forward to 
their meeting, which was to bring unalloyed content to 
both. Alas ! the course of true love will not run 
smoothly ! Jenny's father became unhappy when he fully 
realized that he had given up his child to be taken to a 
country where the sound of her own language would be 
unheard, and where the difficulties of the journey would 
separate her, perhaps for years, from her family. In vain 
did her mother, for Jenny's sake, expostulate with him. 
" No," he would answer, " I have done wrong in giving 
my consent, my dear ; and you must not yield your judg- 
ment to your unwillingness to make them suffer. They 



JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 37 

must live in New York, or the engagement must be 
broken." 

Bernardino had written that in a few hours he would 
arrive. It was his first vacation at Cambridge. Jenny, 
having been told her father's determination, met him with 
a troubled countenance. It was soon explained to him, 
in a conversation with her father, that the engagement 
must not continue unless his home would be in the 
United States. 

Poor Bernardino could scarcely speak in reply. He 
begged Mr. White to reconsider his decision, — to 
give him a little time. " I would lose my life for Jenny, 
but I cannot for a time leave Santiago," he said. 

" Then I must insist that the engagement be broken," 
replied Mr. White. " I could not advise my child to re- 
move so far from her family. I know that it is a great 
trial for you, — I feel it deeply, Mr. del Bal ; but it seems 
your love for Jenny is not sufficient to induce you to make 
this sacrifice, if sacrifice it be, for her sake." 

Bernardino seemed in unutterable agony of mind, and 
walked several times up and down the room in silence 
before he could reply. At last he said with difficulty, 
choked by emotion : — 

"I know it must appear strange to you, Mr. White, 
that I should hesitate a moment to comply with your 
wishes, and, above all, when not to do so will deprive me 
of all the happiness of my life." Here he paused. 

" And you are still resolved not to leave Santiago ? " 
inquired Mr. White in astonishment. 

" It must be so. It was one of the conditions upon 



38 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL, 

which I gained my father's consent to come here, — that 
I should not leave my native country forever. I made 
him the promise that no temptation should induce me to 
leave him after my education should be completed. It is 
hard that I should now be obliged to make this terrible 
sacrifice for filial duty; but I must submit." 

In a few moments after, both gentlemen came from the 
room where they had been closeted. Mr. White went to 
his room, greatly pained that he should be forced to be 
the cause of so much pain to his idolized child and to 
Eernardino. But he hoped the time would come when 
she would thank him for it. 

Bernardino and Jenny stood a few moments together 
in the little studio off the parlor, before Bernardino left, 
saying but little. They were suffering too much to speak 
their thoughts in this most bitter disappointment ; yet 
each strong in strength to be obedient to the will of 
parents whom they loved and respected, after a struggle 
they parted, released from the engagement ! . . . . 

This trial, so magnanimously borne, was soon followed 
by a greater happiness than could have been anticipated. 
Mrs. White interceded for them, and represented to her 
husband that a son who would make such a sacrifice for a 
promise to an aged father, must be a son blessed by the 
grace of God, for this was a supernatural act of love and 
obedience, and where could they find one more worthy 
of the precious charge of their daughter's happiness ? 
When did she plead with her husband in vain ? 

The argument was a powerful one, and the young 
people were again reunited by vows never to be broken. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 39 



CHAPTER V. 



MARRIAGE. 



The following summer Jenny went with her family to 
Lake Mahopac. It was a season when this watering- 
place was in its pristine glory. Two thousand New 
Yorkers that summer enjoyed its invigorating influences. 

The beautiful lake, and its island of enchantment, were 
rival places of resort for these pleasure-seekers. On the 
lake, a flotilla of row-boats, decked in gay colors, were 
rowed by ladies and gentlemen, who went sometimes a 
little after dawn to gather water-lilies, or later in the 
morning in parties to the glens on the island for rural 
sports, — a pic-nic, or a ramble under the lofty trees, 
whose wide-spreading branches of heavy foliage almost 
shut out the sun from the sward beneath. 

Many a moonlight night the "Mary Stanton" (Mr. 
White's boat), filled with their family and some friends, 
glided across the lake, and then rested upon the un- 
rippled bosom of the water, a mile from shore, to listen 
with breathless attention to Jenny's voice in a heavenly 
Ave Maria, or a touching ballad, whose witching power, 
in a few moments, brought around them every other boat 
on the lake. No sooner were they near, than, catching 
the inspiration, a multitude of voices from these boats 



40 



joined her in the chorus of her songs. This usually 
ended in calling forth improvised stanzas from one and 
another of the company, till the whole air was filled with 
joyous sound that reached the shore, and challenged 
merry spirits there, who came out of the hotels in parties 
to the banks of the lake, and cheered, and cried " Viva," 
until the little fleet reached home again. Sometimes, as 
soon as Jenny's voice was heard in the distance at night, 
on the water, fire-rockets were sent up from one or more 
of the hotels, and many handkerchiefs waved from the 
windows at the conclusion of a song, and waved until 
she sang again and again. 

It was impossible for her to return a call at one of the 
hotels without being urged to sing and play; crowds 
meanwhile filled the parlor and porches to listen to her. 
Among the guests were many accomplished musicians. 
One German gentleman assured a friend of his that 
since Malibran he had not heard a voice that pleased 
him so well as Miss White's. A difficult Italian piece 
she had just sung, with variations, made him enthusiastic. 
The applause she received embarrassed her frequently, 
but it never excited the slightest vanity. 

It was not unusual this summer for parties of forty and 
fifty to call during the day upon her, and one evening 
over a hundred visitors came to spend the evening ! The 
number caused much merriment, for not more than half 
could be accommodated in the quiet quarters chosen by 
the family, and many were obliged to remain outside till 
those within had left. Indeed, so much attention became 
extremely wearisome. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 41 

One of those days at the lake is described in a letter 
lately received from Jenny's sister, in the convent, to her 
mother : — 

" We had gone, immediately after breakfast, to a pic- 
nic, you remember, dear mother, to Wild Cat Glen on 
the island. It was a hot August day ; and, after ram- 
bling through the glen and over the rocks, Jenny sang 
several times for the little party alone and in chorus, and 
was very much fatigued. Then we rowed home, in the 
glare of the sun, from the island. All this fatigue and 
heat gave Jenny a violent nervous headache. 

" We had engaged to attend a fancy ball that night at 
Gregory's, and she knew that our enjoyment depended 
upon her accompanying us there ; so she ran to her room 
as soon as we reached home, to strive to sleep, in order 
to awaken refreshed. Scarcely had she lain down, pale 
with this throbbing, headache, when a large party of 
friends was announced as having been waiting an hour in 
the parlor before her return, and had desired particularly 
to see her. 

" I exclaimed against her going down, and insisted she 
should have a little rest ; that it was the same every day, 
and she must now send an excuse ; that they had come 
to hear her sing. To which she sweetly replied : ' Nell, 
I ought not to refuse myself, as if I were a person of im- 
portance ; and if I can give them any pleasure, it is right 
to do so.' Down she went, and sang and conversed as 
pleasantly, and was as full of animation, as if she were 
well, and no one knew what she was suffering all the 
time. 



42 JENNY C. JVSITE DEL BAL. 

" 1 knew Jenny's humility, and that she never sang or 
played to gratify her own pride and vanity. I remember 
one evening we were at Dr. Anderson's. He was very 
fond of music, and a critic. He asked Jenny to sing. I 
knew that she had a severe cold, and, as the doctor had 
never heard her sing, I was, with a sister's pride, anxious 
that she should not sing ; but Jenny whispered to me, 
* What a foolish child you are, Nell ! I would not deem 
it right to think a moment of admiration or reputation, 
unless I were dependent upon my voice.' And then she 
seated herself to play and sing. I felt reproached for my 
worldliness, when I saw the sweet, contented smile that 
■ rested on her face when she rose from the piano, although 
the cold had deprived her voice of its sweetness and 
flexibility." 

Another instance of forgetfulness of self, of which we 
we have just been reminded, may not be uninteresting. A 
gentleman visitor came to the house, for whom she had no 
especial liking. He was fond of music, and remained sev- 
eral hours unreasonably asking for song after song, which 
Jenny sang, never seeming weary ; but scarcely had he 
closed the door when she fainted from exhaustion pro- 
duced by a severe nervous headache, from which she had 
been suffering all the time ! 

Two years had elapsed since Bernardino entered the 
law school, and he now made preparations to return to 
Santiago, and make fit arrangements there for the recep- 
tion of her whom he called " the belle of New York." 
He had graduated with honor, and must now hasten to 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 43 

fulfil his promise to his aged father, Don Santiago, and 
announce the near approach of his marriage to an Amer- 
ican lady. 

He reached home in safety. His father and two sisters 
were overjoyed to see him after so long an absence. They 
cordially received the news of his engagement, looking 
upon the full-length picture of Jenny, which he took with 
him, with delight, and asked many, questions concerning 
the young American and her family. He told them of 
her goodness, her loveliness, her winning graces of mind 
and person. But instead of listening to his love-bound, 
spell-bound praise, we will give the quotation, sent us by 
a friend whom Jenny loved dearly, as descriptive of her. 

" It is not the smiles of a pretty face, nor the tint of 
her complexion, nor the beauty and symmetry of her per- 
son, nor the costly dress and decorations that compose 
woman's loveliness j nor is it the enchanting glance of 
her eye, with which she darts such lustre on the man 
she deems worthy of her friendship, that constitute her 
beauty. It is her pleasing deportment, her chaste con- 
versation, the sensibility and purity of her thoughts, her 
affability and open disposition, her sympathy with those 
in adversity, her comforting and relieving the poor in dis- 
tress, and, above all, the humbleness of her soul, that 
constitute true loveliness." 



" Oh, she doth teach the torches to burn bright ; 
Her beauty hangs upon the cheek of night, 
Like a rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear ; 
Beauty too rich for use ; for earth too dear." 



44 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Month after month passed, and still Jenny was watch- 
ing and waiting. Bernardino had not come ! Letters 
came irregularly, at long intervals, and each promised 
new hope of a speedy return. Still, again and again, she 
looked in vain ! Busy rumor whispered words of distrust 
of his fidelity, that reached her ear. But she knew him 
too well to doubt. 

At length he acknowledged to her, by letter, that the 
whole country, for miles around Santiago, had been 
threatened with a fearful revolution, and until such dan- 
ger should pass away he could not leave with safety ; and 
he had been, in spite of all effort to prevent it, enrolled 
privately, and ordered to defend the city. Poor Jenny ! 
Day and night her heart was in fear for his safety, and 
at daily mass she sought prayers from all her friends for 
her intention in his behalf. Still no one but her family 
knew her deep and absorbing anxiety; for, concealing 
her trouble, she was everywhere the bright and radiant 
star, shedding light and lustre upon the circle of which 
she was ever the centre. 

Never had she been more courted than now. At home 
and abroad, never had homage been more abundantly 
offered to her. Conquests without number were won by 
the power and sweetness of her voice, now rich and full, 
for its tones were drawn from the heart's deep harmonies. 

Meanwhile, Bernardino was still far away from her, de- 
jected and unhappy, filled with fears and sad forebodings 
of coming ill. 

During this prolonged absence, Jenny's sweetness and 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 45 

generosity is thus described in a letter lately received 
from the convent, from her sister Nell : — 

" None could have guessed how deeply the cross had 
sunken into her heart. She never, to my recollection, 
broached the subject to one of us ; and if we spoke of it, 
she never dwelt upon what she suffered or felt, and did 
not seem to expect others to think of it. 
i " I believe I knew her thoughts more intimately than 
any living being, for she spoke more freely, thinking our 
lives would be spent together in Santiago, and she wished 
to lighten your heart, dear mother, of any anxiety you 
might feel ; and yet she never spoke to me ten minutes 
of the suffering this suspense and absence, under such 
painful circumstances, caused her. 

" It was no reserve caused this, for she was of a most 
confiding nature ; but it was perfect unselfishness. It 
was only when she, who had never given way, fainted, 
on hearing that the vessel had arrived, bringing Bernar- 
dino, that we knew what a strain had been upon heart 
and nerves." 

At the end of this long and weary year danger to San- 
tiago had disappeared, and Bernardino set sail, with 
bounding heart, for New York, where he arrived to find 
" all well ! " The home, " Castle Comfort," was decorated 
with garlands of evergreen and illuminated to receive 
him. A transparency, wreathed with flowers, upon which 
was printed in Spanish "Always Welcome," was sus- 
pended across the folding-doors between the parlors. 

In the evening, a play, which had been written by Jenny's 
6* 



46 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

sister, Mrs. Mack, was admirably acted by her and 
the other brothers and sisters, to celebrate his re- 
turn. The merry-making of that night was in har- 
mony with the occasion, which made all the inmates 
of that household, for the time, forget the pain of the 
past. 

Two months from that day and night of rejoicing, 
Jenny and Bernardino stood at the altar, in St. Francis 
Xavier's Church, a bride and groom. The ceremony 
was an imposing one. The altar, filled with lights and 
natural flowers, the magnificent vestments of cloth of 
gold, and the rich gold vessels used in the sacrifice, 
the select audience in full dress, the six lovely brides- 
maids, and their accompanying groomsmen, the exquisite 
music, and the solemn and touching address to the young 
couple by Father Driscol, — a beloved friend of both, — 
could hardly be adequately described, as it impressed the 
crowd of friends. 

The day had been threatening, cold, and rainy, since it 
dawned upon that wedding morning ; yet the church was 
crowded. Jenny stood at the altar, opposite the large 
stained-glass window, robed in her snow-white bridal 
dress and orange blossoms, — her only ornaments, the 
ancestral pearls of her husband's family (his wedding 

gift). 

When she knelt for the nuptial benediction, two brides- 
maids and groomsmen held over her and Bernardino, 
according to a Spanish custom, the gold cloth sacra- 
mental veil. Every eye was fixed in admiration upon 
the rapt devotion and angelic expression of the bride 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 47 

kneeling there ; and while they were gazing upon her, 
the sun broke forth from behind the clouds, which till 
then had darkened the church, and flooded her with a 
brilliant and glowing light. An involuntary " How beau- 
tiful ! " was heard from different parts of the building. 

That evening, when the pastor, Father Driscol, called 
to see the family, he was asked if he ever saw a more 
distinguished company, or more beautiful and attentive 
bridesmaids and groomsmen, nearly all of whom were 
Protestants. He replied : " Madam, I did not see them ; 
I only saw the angel who knelt before me." 



The next morning the following notice of the marriage 
appeared in one of the New York papers : — 

" At a splendid wedding of one of our most charming 
belles (daughter of Hon. Judge W ), celebrated ac- 
cording to the Catholic Spanish form, the ceremony of 
blessing the bridal pair, under a canopy held by the at- 
tendants, was performed for the first time in this country. 
The scene was very beautiful, with the brilliant dresses of 
a numerous assemblage, the profusion of flowers decorat- 
ing the Virgin's shrine — (May is her peculiar month) — 
the blaze of lights, and the sacerdotal ceremonies. 

" c Sail forth into the sea of life, 
O gentle, loving, trusting wife.' " 



48 JENnrz a white del bal. 



CHAPTER VI 



DEPARTURE FOR SANTIAGO. 



It was the intention of Bernardino to leave New York, 
a few weeks after their marriage, and return home. But 
fate interposed. The long-threatened revolution in San- 
tiago broke out at last, and brought with it death, deso- 
lation, and gloom upon that little town, which we remem- 
ber was introduced to us but a few years ago slumbering 
in such tranquil repose. 

Bernardino's first letters after his wedding-day an- 
nounced this fearful event, and the death of his brother- 
in-law, who had fallen a victim, in the street, to the fury 
of the revolutionists ! 

What could he do ? To take his bride there now, 
where his home was covered as with a pall of mourning, 
he could not think of ; and to remain away, might be dis- 
astrous to his worldly affairs. The advice of his father- 
in-law was taken ; and the family, though deeply deploring 
the cause, rejoiced at the thought that Jenny might yet 
adorn and bless "Castle Comfort" with her presence a 
little longer. 

Oh, how rapidly, as if on angel wings, those months 
passed away ! We knew such happiness could not last, 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 49 

and we must now be content with the pleasure that sad 
memory has treasured of those moments. How closely, 
side by side, are the golden and the darkened threads 
interwoven in the web of life ! 

At the close of a year, the birth of a son, whom they 
named James White del Bal, gladdened all hearts. Again 
heartfelt rejoicings rang through the house, and no one 
was more wild with joy than the young mother, whose 
heart seemed too full of happiness, finding herself in 
our midst, and seeing her first-born in the bosom of 
her own family, caressed and loved with lavish expression 
of affection by them. 

Alas ! the floral festive wreaths were scarcely hung 
upon the walls to welcome him, before death came, with 
his relentless hand, and snatched from the mother's 
bosom her beautiful boy! 

And now we must let them go away. Would that we 
could recount another joy before the parting. The resig- 
nation with which that bereaved young father and mother 
gave up their child to God edified every one who saw it. 

That week another deep affliction fell upon the family, 
— the death of a beloved and revered aunt, Mary Ann 
Griffin, sister of Gerald Griffin, — a saintly soul, fit com- 
panion to another world of the spotless infant. 

Jenny's sister, Ellen, had made preparations to enter 
the Convent of the Sacred Heart as a nun, but deferred 
her departure until the day when Jenny and Bernardino 
would sail for Panama. 

It was a fearful struggle for parent^ and children, the 
tearing asunder members of that happy and united family. 



50 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Frank, the eldest son, had already gone forth into the 
army of the North, although not yet twenty-one ; and 
now, on the 23d of June, 1863, carriages stood at the 
door to convey Jenny and Bernardino to the vessel that 
sailed in a few hours for Panama, and Ellen to her newly 
chosen convent-home at Manhattanville ! 

Hearts bled 

Jenny privately, just before starting, called her brothers 
and sisters to her room, and told them that it was her 
duty and theirs to be brave of heart, and to do all they 
could to help father and mother to bear the parting so 
near at hand, and asked them to promise not to cry 
before them at the ship, till after she had gone. She then 
made them all kneel down with her before her oratory, 
for the last time together, and ask God to help them to 
keep up in this severe trial, and spare the feelings of their 
parents. Rising, she then kissed each one in turn, and 
bade them good-by, embracing them, amid loud sobs from 
all, again and again. 

An hour after, the carriages rolled away, bearing the 
family to the ship. They went on board, and remained 
till " All ashore ! " sounded like a death-knell to them. 
In silence, and with bursting hearts, " the children " in 
turn hung upon Jenny's neck. " Remember your prom- 
ise — we must keep up," — she whispered to each; and 
they were every one heroic ! Their little leader did not 
ask in vain. But when the parents came to clasp her 
in their arms, nature and strength gave way on their 
parts 

Again, " All ashore ! " admonished them that a last 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 51 

farewell must be taken, and the family left to gaze from 
the shore on the huge black monster-looking ship at the 
wharf. It was rilled to overflowing with people of all 
ages and conditions, about to leave for California and 
elsewhere ; and, among them, two young people, Jenny 
and Bernardino, stood arm in arm, leaning against the 
bulwarks of the vessel, — Jenny, with forced smiles and 
encouraging words, tossing kisses to her parents, as when 
a little child, calling to them, "We will soon return ; it 
will not be long." But when the heavy cables were 
drawn in, and fell in fetter-like coils on the deck, her 
hand grasped Bernardino's arm with almost convulsive 
tightness. With hearts filled with inexpressible sadness, 
they leaned forward, and nothing around could distract 
them from their steadfast gaze upon the group on shore, 
of father, mother, brothers, sisters, and friends, who stood 
looking up to them, in silence, with outstretched arms 
and streaming eyes ! 

The huge vessel slowly and majestically began to move 
away upon the waters. We can see those two now, as at 
that moment, waving adieu, and adieu, and adieu, and 
receiving again and again the response from aching 
hearts on shore. 

The ship had ploughed her way a half a mile from the 
shore ; yet there they stood motionless, with faces turned 
homeward, still with straining gaze upon us. A dark 
and threatening sky formed a background, and the rough 
waves before them kept widening the distance between 
us, until we saw their figures disappear in darkness at the 



52 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

horizon, where earth and heaven seemed to meet. And 
there we left them ! 

Our guardianship of that sweet soul was over ! It was 
her first going out from the ark of home (her parents' 
bosom), where she had been so tenderly loved. She 
never returned with the olive-branch to them ; but she 
was sent to take peace " which passeth all understand- 
ing " to the hearts and souls of many. 

Of Jenny's life hereafter, she must be her own chron- 
icler, in letters written only for the eye of her family. We 
have given them to our readers just as they were written, 
believing that withholding what might be deemed by 
some of but little interest to the public would mar the 
whole. 

We have dwelt upon the gifts and graces of her, of 
whom we have written this imperfect and unsatisfactory 
memoir, not to bring to light, for vain praise, her loveli- 
ness and perfection. God forbid ! It has been so univer- 
sally acknowledged, by all who knew her, that she was es- 
pecially good (" angelic " was a favorite term used by her 
friends when speaking of her), and her future life (alas ! 
so short) so justified the belief that she was one of the 
chosen few, that we have analyzed her heart and soul for 
our own good and that of others, to contemplate how beau- 
tifully harmonious are God's works, when his providence is 
manifested in the guidance and guardianship of his elect. 
And such a one, we believe, was Jenny. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEI. J3AL. 53 



PRIVATE CORRESPONDENCE. 



The Parting from Home — Alabama Feared — Arrival at Aspinwall near at 
hand — College Songs — Homesickness. 

Latitude unknown to me, 

" Ocean Queen," June 24/^, 1863, 

II.30 A. M. 

My darling father, mother, and each one down to 
Pamela, of my cherished home circle, rises before me 
as I seat myself to address to you my first letter home. 

I do not dare to say one word of my agonizing feelings 
leaving you, dear ones ; for I cannot now trust myself to 
think, much less write, on this subject. I do not know 
what my fellow-passengers thought of me ; for, as I was 
borne away from you all, your dear forms faded from my 
sight, I sobbed and cried aloud. Poor Bernardino tried 
to comfort me ; but he felt truly sad leaving a family, 
whom he says he has reason to love as only next to his 
own, and he can hardly draw the distinction. 

A short time after we left the dock, while I was still 
gazing in the direction where I had last seen you, I heard 
a lively voice behind me, saying, " I knew this must be 
you. Cheer up, and take some cherries." Looking up, 
I saw J. T. Doyle. 



54: JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

Bernardino presented his letter to the captain. " You 
must be related to the Arosemenas, you resemble them 
so much," he remarked. " I am," said Bernardino ; " my 
mother was an Arosemena." I think we receive more 
attention since. 

This morning the upper deck reminds me of Saratoga 
or Lake Mahopac. Various groups of ladies and gentle- 
men are engaged in chatting, reading, playing, and some 
ladies pretending to sew or knit. I am writing in my 
state-room. So far, I am well ; but it has been very 
smooth, yet wind enough to use the sails. If I were not 
homesick, I would call it delightful. We appear to have 
a number of agreeable people on board. 

Bernardino and I are % constantly speaking of you all. 
Not only is my heart filled with remembrances of each 
one at home, but with all my loved relatives in Bingham- 
ton, Detroit, Georgetown, and Manhattan ville. I feel as 
though I am addressing each one particularly, so vividly 
do they come before me. All past kindness, love, and 
affection, shown me by them, makes me feel that I have 
had an unusual measure of happiness in the devoted, 
active affection that every member of my family has be- 
stowed upon me. I trust I have not been spoiled by it, 
and that before many years are over I may be permitted to 
be once more reunited to my dear ones at home, the sepa- 
ration from whom is so great, so overpowering a trial. 

I am more anxious on account of leaving poor Frank 
in so dangerous a position.* I trust in the mercy of God 

* Frank J. White, her oldest brother, not yet twenty-one, was an officer 
in the army of the Civil War, then begun. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 55 

I will hear nothing but good news. My parting with you 
all was so hurried, it seemed to add to the pain. My 
darling father's pale face still troubles me. I cannot 
bring myself to think of my dearest Ellen as missed from 
the home circle. It was so hard for me to give her up, 
the darling ! I must not dwell too particularly on you 
all, or I will not be presentable at dinner. 

Dear Bernardino has been, I need not say, all loving 
care and kindness, and tries in every way to console me. 

My letter must necessarily be stupid, I fear. The only 
adventures we can anticipate, namely, an encounter with 
the Alabama, or a storm, I prefer being deprived of! 

June 26th. — It has been rough, and I dared not 
write in my state-room yesterday. The evening was 
calm, and the moon shone out clearly. The sea-sick 
passengers revived, and the upper deck presented quite 
an agreeable scene. The passengers have tried to im- 
agine the "Alabama" among the sails we have passed. 
They say, however, that she is now on the Pacific side, to 
catch the ships as they appear. 

We have made several agreeable acquaintances. Mr. 
Hertado, an intelligent, accomplished gentleman, is very 
diligently instructing me in political matters. He says 
he wishes me to use my influence on the right side. He 
has had long conversations with Bernardino on the state 
of his country, and has tried to discover Bernardino's po- 
litical views. Bernardino has been enough of the lawyer 
to be very non-committal ! He seems to think — why, 
I do not know — that I am going to do something in 



56 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Santiago. I have carefully avoided saying anything of 
my plans, for I would lose all influence were I to an- 
nounce myself as one who expected to introduce some 
wonderful reforms ; and I would not blame the people 
for disliking me. I have been laughing at the idea of 
influencing Bernardino. Mr. Hertado is not aware that 
he is an American citizen ! 

June 2jtk. — My darling little Pamela's birthday! 
I hope my dear Loo will give her my birthday kiss. 

The vessel is rocking. Many of the passengers have 
given up. I may do so soon. Some of my neighbors 
look as if they must give up the ghost ! 

my darling parents, what would I not give to be 
with you for one hour even ! Homesickness is far worse 
than seasickness. Each one of my dear ones at home is 
vividly before me, and I yearn, with an indescribable 
longing, to clasp you to my heart once more. 

After all my preparation, my parting seemed hurried 
and unsatisfactory. When I left the house, I was so 
confused I could not tell afterwards if I had said good- 
by to all the servants. If I did not, tell them I thought 
of them, but scarcely knew what I was doing. 

1 wrote several letters to my dear uncles and aunts in 
Detroit, to Binghamton, and to others, which were mis- 
laid. If they are found, please send them. 

June 29th. — The heat has become oppressive. Last 
night, about eleven o'clock, we began to send up rockets 
as signals to the convoy "Rhode Island," which was 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 57 

awaiting us in this latitude. In a short time, an officer 
from the " Rhode Island " boarded us. There was a 
great state of excitement among some of the ladies, 
when they were aroused from their sleep, when we were 
boarded. Many gave up all as lost. One old lady was 
in a great state of excitement, collecting her things to- 
gether, thinking that the first descent of the rebels (whom 
she thought were already on board) would undoubtedly 
be on her trunk and bandbox. 

We are now passing the Island Inagua. A few moments 
since, two of the blackest fellows came up in a little row- 
boat for the mail and papers, which the captain threw to 
them with great dexterity. I did not know what loneli- 
ness I experienced from being so far from land, until I 
felt such a revulsion of feeling on seeing this island 
this morning. All the passengers seemed quite cheered 
by it. 

From the point from which we view the island, all that 
presents itself to us is white, shining sand, occasionally 
relieved by clusters of cocoa-nut and palm trees. 

I have had quite a chat with an English lady this 
morning, who is going to San Francisco. She congrat- 
ulates me on my destination being the Isthmus instead 
of California. She spent a month in Panama and its 
neighborhood, and says she never enjoyed a month more. 
The people with whom she visited were so refined and 
elegant in their manners, and are so kind and hospitable. 

They have just prepared one of the practical jokes by 
which passengers try to relieve the tedium of a sea- 
voyage. Some one has spread the report that the 

6* 



58 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

" Rhode Island " has had an engagement with the " Ala- 
bama," in which she lost one hundred and fifty men! 
Immediately after dinner, an officer from the "Rhode 
Island " is to come on board, and draft the number from 
among the passengers ! the draft to commence in the 
steerage. Shortly after the story went round, a man was 
offered ten dollars to be a substitute, and I hear now 
offers have gone as high as twenty-five dollars ! 

My dear parents, this letter has been written at such 
times and in such places, I could hardly write a con- 
nected letter ; but, if it does nothing more, it goes back 
to you freighted with my heart's best, warmest love, es- 
pecially to you, my own darling parents, and to each and 
all of my dear family, whom I seem to love (if possible) 
more than I ever did before. I still think of my darling 
Nell as one of my home circle. Ah, how I miss her ! * 
I do hope you will let Nettie and Lucy visit me. Oh, if 
I could only step into that old dining-room, and find you 
all there together again once more, if even for an hour ! 
Bernardino does everything to console me in his power. 
I hope you will all remember to pray for us. 

On the 1 3th I hope to have letters from home. How 
my heart bounds at the thought ! Words seem so cold 
to express my feelings, \vhen I say adieu to you my dar- 
ling dear ones, but I think you know my heart. 

Pray ever for your devotedly attached absent child, 
Jenny C. White del Bal. 

* It had been arranged that Ellen, her sister, should accompany Jenny, 
and remain one year with her. But the journey was too long delayed, 
and Ellen entered the convent the day Jenny left home, unwilling to 
postpone making the sacrifice. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 59 

July 2d. — My beloved parents : We expect to arrive 
at Aspinwall this evening. It is raining quite hard, and 
we have an " Aspinwall sky." They say it rains there 
all the time. 

I had a terrible attack of homesickness on deck last 
evening. A party of young gentlemen sang some of the 
old college songs we have so often sung all together at 
home ; and it brought our whole family group, with dear 
Nettie and Tom in the foreground, so forcibly to my 
mind, that I cried myself sick, and had to go to bed from 
weakness.* I have awakened this morning with a little 
more courage. I am trying to look forward to our meet- 
ing again, and not back to that dreadful parting ! Ber- 
nardino joins in love to each and all. 

Pray, dearest parents, for your loving child so far away. 
Jenny C. White del Bal. 

P. S. — Give my affectionate remembrances to each 
one of your good girls. 



Arrival at Panama — Political State of the Country — Churches closed — 
Fourth of July honored for Jenny's Sake. 

Panama, July $tk, 1863. 
My ever beloved Parents, — At last I have arrived 
in this country of revolutions, and am quietly seated in 
a Boston rocking-chair (!) in my own room, the silence 

* Those songs were often sung to close a delightful evening of social 
happiness. Jenny was the centre of the group who sang them, to the 
delight of many friends. 



60 JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 

of my retreat occasionally interrupted by peals of laughter 
and volleys of Spanish, which come from the parlor, which 
is adjoining my room. 

To say, my darling parents, that I do not feel home- 
sick, would deceive you. To arrive among a strange 
people, and to know that, in a certain manner, you now 
belong to them, is a heavy-hearted thing. How can it be 
otherwise to me, with the remembrance of my own loved 
home, family, and friends so fresh in my heart, as indeed 
they will ever remain. 

My soul longs for dear Nell still, I can assure you. 
Do not fancy me unhappy, dear parents. I keep up very 
well, thank God ; and indeed it would be ungrateful on 
my part did I not try to be cheerful, for everything that 
kindness of heart and sympathizing affection can suggest, 
is done by every member of this family, and by even the 
servants,, to make me feel that I am really loved. All 
that we have heard of a Spanish welcome, is far from ex- 
aggeration. Mrs. Sosa (Bernardino's relative), whom we 
are visiting, immediately asked for Nell, and expressed 
much regret at her change of plan, and much sympathy 
with you, dear parents, in your trial of parting with us 
both on one day. 

The father of the late governor just called upon me. 
He is a very fine-looking man, about sixty years of age. 
After his wife's death, he became a priest, and is, they 
say, a most excellent one. He is a man of talent and 
education, and formerly a member of Congress. My 
heart bled for the poor man, when Bernardino made a 
distant allusion to his son's death in the late revolution. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 61 

He could scarcely speak; and an expression of pain, 
without any bitterness in it, passed over his face, that I 
shall not soon forget, when he said, " They have taken 
away from me a son that I would joyfully have given my 
existence to save." 

I feel very well, thank God ; but the fatigue of the 
voyage, the arrival among strangers, the conversing con- 
tinually in a foreign language, and trying to be lively and 
cheerful, while home memories are filling my heart and 
mind, have been, and are, quite a strain upon my nerves ; 
and when I seat myself to write, I feel quite confused. 
Next week, I hope to send you a clearer account of my 
sayings and doings. 

So far, I am delighted with those with whom I have 
become acquainted. In every sense of the word, they 
are perfectly refined people. You would like them much. 

The political state of the country is terrible ! All the 
churches are closed. But more on this subject in my 
next. I am called to see visitors. I have already had 
several visitors, and expect more this evening. Last 
night the gentlemen of the family set off some fireworks 
in the court-yard, in honor of my Independence Day (the 
Fourth). I need not say I was surprised and gratified. 

I am called again. Adieu, my beloved parents, sisters, 
and brothers, all, all at home. Pray for your devoted 
child. 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

The long letter descriptive of her arrival accompanied 
this one of the 5th of July. 



62 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 



First Impressions of Panama — lis People — Churches — Introduction to her 
new Relatives — Private Houses in Panama — Private Chapel — Calls — 
Spanish Hospitality — Religious Exercises forbidden. 

Panama, July \th, 1863. 

My beloved Parents, — At length I have arrived in 
this ancient-looking city, after a most favorable voyage 
of nine days and fifteen hours. 

We arrived at Aspinwall yesterday morning about day- 
break. I can scarcely describe to you the strange feeling 
I experienced on approaching the coast, when, instead of 
the scenery to which my eye was accustomed, I beheld 
the rich foliage and luxuriant vegetation of the tropics. 
The scene was the more strange from the singular con- 
trast presented in the mingling of the nations, so entirely 
opposite in manners and habits as the Americans and 
Spaniards, for purposes of business ! 

We had scarcely touched the wharf, when the vessel 
was crowded by a number of the most comical, jolliest 
looking negroes imaginable, reminding me of the few 
Southern darkies I have seen, and showing their love of 
dress in the same fantastic manner. Their ordinary dress 
consists of long linen trousers and shirt, — the shirt worn 
outside the pantaloons, — fastened in quite a graceful man- 
ner across the shoulders, and when possible, quite a hand- 
some one ; and this serves as an overcoat when it rains. 

They were laughing and joking with all that light- 
heartedness that seems peculiar to their race wherever 
you find it. I forgot to add that their toilette was com- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 63 

pleted by a sombrero that baffles description. A negro's 
hat has always something peculiarly characteristic, but I 
think the South American darky must, in the hat ques- 
tion, bear off the palm ! Every variety of the shape and 
color of the large Spanish sombrero was displayed. Each 
one tried to distinguish himself among his companions 
by the display of some little article of dress, which, I 
presume, he thought it difficult for them to obtain. One 
I remarked with a very handsome pink silk under-shirt, 
while another seemed equally proud of the toes of a pair 
of old brogans, in which he managed to shuffle along ! 

Around the depot, and along the wharves, were a great 
number of Jamaica women, offering for sale the most 
tempting fruits and excellent variety of cakes. The ap- 
pearance of these women was quite Eastern, with their 
gay-colored turbans and their dress, usually white, or 
some bright-colored muslin, looped up, as we now loop 
our walking-dresses, with a bright colored handkerchief. 
They carried on their heads large wooden bowls filled 
with fruits. They spoke English and their own dialect, 
a kind of mixture of French and Spanish. I was much 
amused at their sharpness in trade. They took the 
postage currency at half price ; but, as the hour of leav- 
ing approached, I heard one negress, who was selling 
cigars, calling out, " Green bax, green b ax, taken at full 
value ! " I presume she added to the price of her cigars. 

We breakfasted at the City Hotel, which is like a good 
country tavern. And here I parted with my fellow-pas- 
sengers with much regret. The last link that bound me 
to New York was broken ! 



64 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Aspinwall is merely a collection of hotels, several 
stores, and the residences of those who keep them, and 
the employes of the road, the depot buildings, and 
workshops of the company. They are now building a 
Protestant Church. Aspinwall is built on low ground, 
and must be unhealthy. 

The ride across the Isthmus is an uninteresting one, the 
road being cut through the swampy woods which lie along 
the Chagres river, of which we caught occasional glimpses. 
There are three or four stations, at which we stopped. 
The village generally consisted of a large frame two-story 
house, occupied by some American attached to the rail- 
road, a machine shop of the company, and from twenty 
to one hundred of the ranchos of the country people, ac- 
cording to the size of the town. These houses are built 
of a kind of clay, which hardens with time, the roofs 
thatched with a kind of long reed grass, or a very large 
leaf which grows in quantities in the forest. The men 
dress (I mean the poorest class of negroes and Indians) 
as those who came on board the boat. The universal 
dress of the negro and mulatto women is a skirt of white 
or colored material, a kind of low-necked Garibaldi, with 
a full bertha failing to the waist, trimmed with insertion 
and edging, the sleeves very full and trimmed in the 
same way, and falling about to the elbow. In the street, 
a long shawl of some blue material isually, which is 
folded around them and covers the neck, and a high 
Panama hat, form their toilette. 

About 3 p. m. we arrived in Panama. The railroad 
depot is outside the walls of the city. There we met 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 65 

Antonio Diaz, the little boy whom you remember at 
school at West Farms, now a young gentleman, and Mr. 
Gonzalez, a cousin of Bernardino's. Our trunks were 
taken on a wheelbarrow by a negro, and we rode to Mrs. 
Sosa's house. 

You can, perhaps, imagine, dearest parents, but I can- 
not tell you, my feelings during the ride. Everything 
around me so old and strange ; the narrow streets, the 
numberless ruins, the old churches, all giving me the 
feeling that I was reversing the story of Rip Van Winkle ; 
and at the same time my mind was full of the thought of 
meeting my new family, — of what they would think ol 
me, and of the the impression they would make upon me. 
With all these conflicting feelings, my heart was swelling 
with thoughts of home and you dear ones, and the tears 
were starting to my eyes. 

Such was my struggle to keep the mastery over my 
feelings, and appear pleasant and cheerful to my new 
friends, who tried in every way to please and console me, 
that yet my head is confused ; and I find, when I try to 
write, I cannot give a clear account of anything. But I 
must not dwell upon my feelings, or you will never have 
an account of my arrival. 

The houses here are mostly two and three stories high, 
partly built of stone and partly of wood. The first or 
ground floor is usually a store, the back rooms used by 
the family who hire the store. There is no connection 
between the house and the store, if the store is hired to 
strangers ; but, if used by the family, there is a small 
door which is opened into the court-yard. At the right 



66 JENNY C WHITE DEL BAL. 

of the store is a large porte cochere, which stands open 
all day and evening. You enter by this door a square 
flagged hall, wide enough to admit a carriage. At the 
further end of this hall is a short flight of stairs leading 
to the first story, which is in fact a kind of entresol. On 
this floor is the dining-room, kitchen, and several rooms 
used, I believe, as bedrooms. A second flight of stairs 
leads to the parlor, the door of which is immediately at 
the head of the stairs. This room extends across the 
front of the house, and is a large room with many win- 
dows without any sashes, but closed when necessary with 
sliding wooden shutters. From this room two doors open 
into bedrooms and one into a hall, which extends through 
to the back of the house, and on which open the various 
bedrooms, storerooms, etc., of the family. One door of 
my room opens into a corridor, filled with plants, which 
leads to the private chapel, a beautiful room at the south 
end of the house, having a large window open to the 
floor, from which there is a magnificent view of the bay 
of Panama. 

You would be enchanted, dearest father and mother, 
could you stand as I do sometimes in this quiet little 
chapel, just at dusk, lighted but by the lamp on the altar, 
and gaze on this lovely bay, sparkling in the rays of the 
tropical moon, and watch the lights as they slowly appear 
on the different islands or the various frigates and steam- 
ers lying at anchor. All seems so calm and lovely, that 
it gives peace to the soul, and for a time the mind may 
linger but on pleasant memories and holy thoughts, and 
one may almost forget that they must turn again to the 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 67 

strife and bustle of this busy world. But here I am star- 
gazing, instead of giving you an account of my reception. 

The family, who were expecting us, met us at the door, 
and received me most affectionately, begging me to con- 
sider myself at home, and placing themselves, their house, 
in fact all they have, at my disposal. Mrs. Sosa and the 
young ladies (four) then conducted me to my room. They 
inquired immediately for Nell, expressing much regret 
at her change of plans. After kind inquiries about the 
family, they left me to change my dress. 

As I stood there, I felt as though my heart would 
break, the feeling of loneliness was so overpowering, and 
I realized fully the sacrifice I had made in giving up 
Nell. Every one of the family, down to Pamela and 
little Maggie, were present to my heart ; and I seemed 
to renew with its first force that great sorrow of my life, 
the loss of my own darling child.* I did not, however, 
dare give way, for I knew I could not recover the com- 
mand over my feelings if once I yielded to them. My 
dear husband tried in every way to cheer me and com- 
fort me. 

This house is furnished in old style. In the parlor are 
pier-glasses, " guarda brisa," cane-bottom chairs (on ac- 
count of the climate), cane-bottom sofa, with very hand- 
some rug in front of it (the only carpeting in the room), 
glass chandelier in the centre of the room, and at equal 
distances around it four lamps like our old-fashioned hall 
lamps. Besides "The Agony in the Garden," three 

* She lost her first-born, a beautiful boy, and grieved much to leave 
him behind. 



68 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

family pictures hang on the wall, — a handsome gentle- 
man (brother of Mr. Sosa), a dignified, fine-looking lady 
of the old Castilian caste of feature, Dona Maria del Bal 
de Sosa, aunt of Bernardino. The third portrait repre- 
sents a grand-looking old Spaniard, seated in a chair of 
state and dressed in official robes. He was an uncle of 
Mrs. Sosa, and held high office in the Spanish court 
before and during the Peninsular War, — an epoch my 
dear Grandfather White remembers with so much pride 
and pleasure.* This portrait bears the inscription 1811, 
Don Jaquin Ortez, counsellor to his Majesty the King, 
Judge of the Supreme Court, etc., etc. 

My room has nothing in it different from our furniture, 
except the high-post bedstead, with handsome white cur- 
tains and valance. The curtains are tastefully ornamented 
in various places with loops and bows of rich wide pink 
ribbon, and are looped back with solid silver bands. The 
pillows are covered with red silk damask and an outer 
covering of lace. On each pillow at the end is a large 
bow of ribbon to match the bows on the curtains. The 
jewel-stand on my toilet table is very beautiful and very 
costly, and under it a cover " from the States " (very 
ordinary), which is used as a curiosity from North Amer- 
ica ! I can understand now how surprised a Chinaman 
or Japanese must be to find in our parlors a Chinese tea- 
cup and saucer or chopsticks ! Opposite my bed is a 
large window, and hung across the room near it is a large 
hamaca. The beds are very hard mattresses, and over 

* Her grandfather, Edward White, lost a brother in Spain at that time. 
He was a gallant officer in the British army. 



JENNT C. WHITE DEL BAL- 69 

them is spread a piece of very fine morocco to make it 
cool. 

The style at dinner is more like the French than 
American. The way we lay our knife and fork when 
not using it, is, it appears, the sign here to remove the 
plate ; • and an accomplished waiter's duty is to notice 
this instantly and remove the plate. I did not learn this 
lesson, however, until my little negress had whipped 
away my plate a number of times, while I was still in 
the enjoyment of a nice dish, when I had laid my knife 
and fork down for a moment in conversation, according 
to our custom ! But I soon managed my knife and fork 
a PEspagnol ! 

The family here is a charming one. It consists of 
Mrs. Sosa, a lady who leads the life of a truly Christian 
widow. She is an edification and an example to those 
who know her. Her time is devoted to the care of her 
family, consoling the poor and afflicted, and to prayer. 
Three sons, # fine gentlemanly young men ; three daugh- 
ters, lovely, affectionate girls, very bright and intelligent. 

I have now introduced you, dear parents, to my new 
cousins. They are more like my own family than I could 
have expected to find in any country. The same united, 
loving affection expressed and felt one for another ; and 
your kindness to those far from their own land, dear 
parents, is already returned to me in every way in their 
power. 

Dearest mother, I have suffered from homesickness 

* Two of these sons have since come to the United States to finish their 
education, and were placed under Judge White's care. 
7* 



70 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

more than I could have imagined possible to suffer, and 
nothing but knowing that such acute grief could not last 
always enabled me to bear it. Notwithstanding this, I 
am not unhappy.* 

They tell me I will love my relatives in Santiago, 
— that the Santiagenenos are noted for being warm- 
hearted, sincere, and devoted friends. 

I spent a part of the morning, day before yesterday, 
with a cousin of Bernardino. He has a very fine house, 
built in American style, with a beautiful garden adjoining 
and opposite to it; land extending to the beach, upon 
which are summer-houses, a beautifully arranged little 
study, bathing-houses really sumptuously arranged, a fine 
observatory, from which there is the finest view of the 
Pacific and the Island I have yet seen. Although only 
about forty, he retired several years since from busi- 
ness, and enjoys the pleasures of his intellectual taste. 
Generous almost to a fault to those who need his assist- 
ance, he is universally esteemed. 

July 16th. — Letters from home ! Words could not ex- 
press my joy. I felt as if I could kiss every line. 

I have had many calls, — many from old gentlemen, 
friends of Bernardino's father when he was a young man. 
At first it was very tiresome to me to hear only Spanish 
around me, but I am becoming accustomed to it. What 
I find most difficult is, to reply with sufficient form and 
stateliness to the long, polite speeches they make me, — 
on leaving, in their first call, placing themselves, houses, 

* Jenny's high-toned principle and resignation to duty kept her soul 
from sinking whenever a sacrifice was required of her. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 71 

services, etc., etc., at my disposal, begging me to com- 
mand them in future at whatever hour I may need them, 
and in whatever quarter of the globe they may be where 
they can be of any use to me. At the end of one of these 
flourishes, delivered by some old Spaniard, it takes all 
my self-possession to reply with due courtesy ! 

There is scarcely a good family here in which there 
are not one or two who speak English; most of the 
young gentlemen and some of the young ladies having 
been educated in Paris or the United States. 

I have not mentioned Margareta Lopez. She is very 
kind, and watches every movement of mine to see if she 
can make me more comfortable. 

Please, dear mother, remember me to every one of my 
dear relatives and friends. Not one is forgotten by me. 

As a matter of charity, do please, dear parents, obtain 
all the prayers you can for us. We have here now no 
religious exercises of any kind. The churches are closed. 
No priest can say mass or administer any sacrament 
under pain of fine so heavy that none can pay it ; and, in 
case of failure to pay it, either imprisonment or exile is 
the penalty. 

Remember me most kindly to all the good Fathers at 
1 6th St., and ask their prayers for us. 

To each one of my dear family in New York, Bingham- 
ton, and Detroit, a fond adieu. It makes me lonely to 
say good-by even in a letter. 

My darling parents, pray for your devoted, far-distant 
child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



72 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



LETTER TO HER SISTER IN THE CONVENT. 

Religious and Political State of the Country — Mosquera — His Dictatorship — 
Seizing of Church Property and of Religious Establishments — Visit to a 
Convent — Its Inmates — Nuns Exiled — Interesting Account of their De- 
parture from the Convent. 

Panama, July 2otk, 1863. 

My darling Nell, — I try to fancy you as still at 
home as I left you — (I left a few hours before you went 
to the convent). Bernardino tries to console me with the 
idea that you are yet intended for South America, and 
will come. 

Great is my longing to have you with me, darling ; but 
I do not wish it now, for my happiness could only be ob- 
tained by a sacrifice I hope you will never be called upon 
to make, — abandoning a state of life which I know has 
been your choice since you could think.* 

And now, dear Nell, while you are enjoying such an 
excess (I would say, were I speaking of anything else) 
of religious privileges, I must tell you how we poor, fam- 
ished, starving, almost dying Christians are situated, that 
your zeal and charity may be inflamed, and that you and 
all those living surrounded by every comfort and conso- 
lation holy religion offers, may lift up your hearts in 
earnest supplication to Heaven, and beg of God in his 
mercy and love to look down upon this poor land ; and 
beseech him to fill with sorrow and repentance the hearts 

* What generosity and sacrifice of happiness for duty's sake ! 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 73 

of those who have plunged the country into a state of 
heathenism terrible to witness. 

An English gentleman, a strict Protestant, who passed 
through here the other day, remarked to Bernardino, " I 
have travelled much, but I have never before seen a gov- 
ernment called Christian whose forte seemed to be to have 
no religion practised within its dominions." This is a 
kind of "civilization" (the great cry of the Liberals) 
difficult to understand or appreciate ! 

The Liberal party had many friends among ecclesias- 
tics as well as laymen, so long as the acts and principles 
of the party were such as tended to establish and per- 
petuate true liberty in the Republic ; but this liberty has 
long been lost sight of by the party, and her base 
counterfeit license stands recognized in her stead. The 
real friends of liberal ideas no longer acknowledge their 
former partisans, but call them "rojos." This latter is 
the party at present dominant. Extremes meet, and no 
rule is so despotic as that of the mob. So this liberal (?) 
party have in their constitution articles and laws ap- 
proved of, or made, by the convention that framed the 
constitution, that, in my humble conception, are those to 
be expected from a despot. I do not speak as a Cath- 
olic, but as a Republican, who believes in a form of gov- 
ernment offering equal rights to all. 

I must go back some months in our political history. 
Mosquera, after his partial success, was elected, by the 
States of the Republic that had already submitted to him, 
as Provisional President or Dictator, his office to last till 
the conclusion of the rebellion. During this time he pro- 



74 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

claimed the law of " tincion " and mortmain law, seizing 
upon all the Church property, including that of all relig- 
ious orders, prohibiting any one giving to the Church or 
religious establishments as they formerly did. 

I forget the term used to express the manner of giving 
these legacies. It is done in the following manner : A 
person leaves, say three thousand dollars to a community ; 
but, instead of leaving the money directly to the convent, 
the amount is left in a certain house or piece of property, 
and whoever owns that house to the end of time is 
obliged to pay the interest of that sum annually to the con- 
vent, even should the property depreciate in value. The 
institution holds a kind of mortgage on the property. All 
such property, held by churches or monasteries, has been 
seized upon by the government, and the people now have 
to pay annually the sums (left by their ancestors for re- 
ligious purposes) towards the support of a government 
really infidel in its tendencies. When the convention 
was called, on the success of the rebels at Rio-negro, del- 
egates (Liberals of course) from all the States attended, 
and there framed a constitution, passed a law approving 
of all Mosquera's acts during his dictatorship (including 
his robbery of churches and convents), and passed a law 
relative to priests and religious orders, which I will copy 
a part of for you. Article 15th of the constitution de- 
crees : " Free profession and practice publicly and pri- 
vately of all religions, provided that such societies commit 
no acts against the national sovereignty, or have not for 
object the disturbance of the public peace." 

This grants toleration of all religions ; and with the 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 75 

government these liberals pretend to have established, 
there should be and could be no connection between 
Church and State. However, these statesmen seem able 
to form a singular constitution. Article 23 reads as 
follows: "In order to sustain the national sovereignty 
and to maintain public peace and security, the National 
Government, and, in some cases, the State Government, 
shall exercise the right of supreme inspection over all 
religious worships as the law shall determine." 

This, it seems to me, makes the President the head of 
the church, as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, 
or Queen Victoria of the Church of England, only with 
this difference : the Columbian President is Pope over 
all the churches in his dominion. Therefore, just now, 
any Protestants who wish to have churches here must 
make up their minds to be under the "supreme" author- 
ity of Pope Mosquera, or whoever happens to be lay 
Pope at the time ! 

How is a person " free " to practise his religion pub- 
licly, according to the dictates of his conscience, when he 
is in constant fear that the " Supreme " may not approve 
of his mode of worshipping ? 

No one in his senses can willingly place supreme 
power, in matters of conscience, in the hands of govern- 
ment, trusting that such power will not be abused ; and 
certainly while this article stands, I cannot admit that 
this government proclaims religious liberty. After the 
constitution was made, the convention made a law, as 
follows : — 

" No minister of the religions already established, or 



7b JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

of those that may be established, can exercise the func- 
tions of his ministry without previously swearing, before 
the highest authority of the place in which he is to exer- 
cise it, to obey the constitution, laws, and authority of the 
Republic and State, and to respect and submit to the 
national sovereignties. Those who refuse to comply, 
shall be exiled from the State ; and should they refuse 
to obey, and notwithstanding continue in the exercise of 
their ministry, shall be punished as disturbers of the 
public peace. No minister of any religion can elect, or 
be elected, to public office. They are equally exempt 
from all public service, civil or military. The establish- 
ment of all religious communities or corporations, with- 
out exception, is prohibited, — those that formerly existed 
being disbanded and suppressed. Such ministers as 
have been exiled, or imprisoned, may return to their 
churches, provided they submit to the conditions of this 
law, and give bail to the amount of from one to ten 
thousand dollars." 

Catholic priests cannot conscientiously take the pre- 
scribed oath ; and, since they will not allow them to go 
on quietly saying mass and administering the sacraments, 
the churches are closed all over the republic, until 
priests can be found to agree to take the oath. This 
will be impossible, unless the law is changed, as no priest 
has a right to officiate if he were to take the oath. The 
bishop has been exiled, and most of the priests have left 
voluntarily or been expatriated ; among them men dis- 
tinguished for their virtues and talents. 

The nuns, as you know, were exiled. Could you see 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 77 

the convent they seized upon here, you would feel that 
the man who could molest a community of poor, feeble 
women, living in the poverty that the appearance of 
everything about the convent evinces that these devoted 
religious lived, must have lost every spark of manhood, 
and should be despised. 

I had a sad morning the day I visited the convent. 
The community now only consisted of five or seven nuns, 
all except two being very aged. The superioress had 
not left the convent in fifty-eight years. Their order 
was exceedingly severe. They denied themselves, for 
God's sake, absolute necessaries of life. 

I have not time in this letter to give you a description 
of the convent (a grand old ruin). All I can say is, there 
voluntary poverty was practised that you cannot imagine. 

The departure of the nuns was most affecting, they say. 
There was a general dispensation to admit visitors for 
several days before they left. During this time, their 
convent was crowded by a sad and tearful throng of 
Christians, who felt that these holy women who, day and 
night, had for years lifted up their hearts in supplication 
to God for them and their country, were now to be driven 
from their midst, as though their very presence was a 
reproach to the rulers of this almost God-forsaken 
country. 

When the last moment came, and the abbess retired 
to assume once more a worldly dress, after fifty-eight 
years of conventional seclusion, it was, they say, most 
touching. Her last act was to go to the chapel, and, in 
the sincerest devotion, earnestly implore God to pardon 

8 



78 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Mosquera, and bring him to true repentance, for the 
misery and sin of which he was the cause. 

She and her nuns were escorted by a large number of 
the first gentlemen of Panama, the French Consul riding 
in the stage with them. They departed amid the sobs 
and tears of the people, who begged the abbess to give 
them her blessing, — an act her humility forbade. She re- 
fused, craving their prayers for her courage and resignation 
under this trial. 

I might write hours, dear Nell, telling you of this coun- 
try. All I can say now is, pray for us earnestly, fervently. 
Such a state of things cannot last, please God. Two 
States have refused to close their churches, their legis- 
lature deciding the law unconstitutional. I hope some- 
thing will be done, and then I can go to work to arrange 
for Father Geotz to come. I think I can succeed, and 
what a world of good he can do here ! 

I must not write more now. I miss you, darling, every 
hour of the day. But it is all for the best, or God would 
not deprive me of you. 

My best love to Aunt Kate. # Bernardino sends much 
love, and hopes you pray for him. 

My darling sister's devotedly attached, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

A bride, honored and beloved as few have been hon- 
ored, meeting her new relations for the first time, and 
conscious that her coming had been looked for, as an 

* Madame Kate White, a nun in the Sacred Heart Convent, to whom 
Jenny was devotedly attached. 



\ 



JENNT C. WRITE DEL BAL. 79 

event of uncommon interest to the large circle of her 
husband's family and friends ; yet Jenny, all unmindful 
(except so far as is necessary to be grateful) of the flatter- 
ing reception given to her, has already, with the eye of 
her soul, surveyed that " almost God-forsaken country," 
and now, though only at the threshold of her new home, 
she opens her heart to its need, and, looking back to 
her loved ones, pleads for it, — " Pray for us fervently, 
earnestly " — as if she were already its loving mother. 



LETTER OF BERNARDINO DEL BAL. 



State of the Country — Murder of Senor don Luis Fabrega — General 
Hooker — General Meade. 



Panama, July 16th, 1863. 

My dear Parents, and all at my New York 
Home, — By my beloved Jenny's letters you will be 
fully informed of all connected with our arrival here; § 
and thus very little is left for me to make my letter of 
much interest to you, except a subject which my dear 
Jenny will say nothing about, I am sure — herself. I 
hear you say, yes. 

She was not much sick during the voyage ; indeed, she 
was able to write every day. Sometimes she had no 
appetite, but that was owing to homesickness, for she 
often, very often, gave way to her tears. That dear, 
sweet home she had left was before her all the time. I 



80 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

do not attempt to describe Jenny's feelings, nor my own, 
at the time of leaving you. My pen would fail to do us 
justice. I would rather trust to your own good heart 
and experience. I will, nevertheless, reassure you, through 
this letter, that my attachment for you all is greater than 
I am able to show. Never shall I forget your kindness 
and hospitality. I feel no difference between my Santiago 
and New York home. 

We arrived here on the 3d of this month, and have en- 
joyed good health, but are lonely. Indeed, our hearts 
beat so sadly for you all, that we can scarcely enjoy my 
cousins' kindness and hospitality. 

I am glad to say that every one of the family were de- 
lighted to see Jenny, and they are all very much pleased 
with her. Indeed, even strangers, who have called, are 
praising her. Although we have only been here so short 
a time, she is spoken of all over the city, and is liked by 
every one. 

She has made already some church friends. Though 

the churches are closed, — that is to say, no mass is 

, said, — yet the people go to church to say prayers and 

novenas ; and of course my beloved Jenny, with my 

cousins, attend daily. 

The state of the country here is very bad ; and we 
cannot yet see the day when we can be any better, un- 
less a foreign power interferes in our public affairs. In 
fact, in the interior of the State the people are so demor- 
alized that there is no security for life. 

Not long ago, a Mr. Luis Fabrega, of Santiago, was 
shot at night in the street, on his way home, and died 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 81 

instantly. He was a brother of Francisco de Fabrdga, 
ex-Governor of this State, of whom, I think, you have 
heard much. 

Please tell Tom his letter was most welcome. Through 
him we heard news of the war. I am not sorry for 
Hooker's removal ; but I do not think General Meade 
is the man to do the work needed. It requires a more 
popular man, and one of more experience on the battle- 
field. I look for better news the next steamer, and hope 
the day is not far distant when the North will be vic- 
torious. 

My best love to you all. With great love and respect, 

your son and brother, 

Bernardino del Bal. 

Bernardino had become so much attached to the United 
States, during his long residence in North America, and 
had formed so many warm friendships here, that to leave 
seemed to exile himself, for his own unfortunate country 
had become a place of hopeless anarchy and revolution. 

He, with his young wife, was called there by duty more 
than inclination. An aged father awaited the return of 
his only son with warm impatience, and no allurements 
abroad could lead Bernardino to neglect or wound that 
parent, by absence from his native town, now that his 
collegiate studies were completed. That parent had 
made the sacrifice of parting with him when his com- 
panionship would have consoled him for the loss of a 
beloved wife, and had allowed him to remain several 
years to complete his education, by the study of law at 

8* 



82 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Cambridge, where he is remembered by the professors 
as one of their most indefatigable students. 

May his filial devotion bring blessings upon him and 
his children's children ! 



LETTER TO JENNY'S SISTER, RHODA E. MACK. 

Customs — Spanish Meals — Daily Worship in Private Chapels — - Birthday 
Celebrations — " Cumpleafios " — New York Riot. 

Panama, July 2,0th, 1863. 

My darling "old Rho," # — What would I not give, 
my darling sister, to be seated by you, if but for an hour, 
that I might hear your experiences and tell mine, while 
surrounded by your little family group, my little angel pet 
Pamela, and my truly dear brother John ! 

Rho, if you and John allow Pamela to forget me .... 
I know " old Loo " (her youngest sister, Lucy) will not 
allow it. When you read this, give the little witch a hun- 
dred kisses for aunt " Nenna del Bal," who went in that 
awful big black ship "Gong" — as Pamela called it — 
out of sight of every one ! 

And now, what can I tell you of my life here that will 
interest you ? We — the ladies of the family — rise from 
six to eight, as we please ; but generally before eight. In 

* The term " Old " is a pet name in the household. Jenny herself was 
called very often, even by uncles and aunts, " Old Jen," as a tender epi- 
thet. Age is not always so honored. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 83 

the parlor, at eight, the servant brings a tray, with cups 
and saucers, and a plate of crackers upon it. We take 
tea, coffee, or chocolate, and some crackers. 

After this, if we intend going out, we go out for a walk 
or to visit some of the churches or other buildings. Then 
follows a bath; after which, at about half-past ten or 
eleven, we breakfast. This is a very substantial meal, 
and consists of beefsteak, cooked very nicely, rice fried 
in a peculiar manner, or rather boiled, in a very little 
water and a good deal of lard (a very good dish), beef 
cut in very thin slices and fried with plantains ; one or 
two dishes, which are excellent, but which I do not 
understand; plantains roasted, Indian meal cooked in 
several ways, French bread, wheat. The plates, as with 
the French, are changed for every dish, but everything is 
served on the table, as with us ; that is, at breakfast they 
do not make a separate course of each dish. After we 
are entirely through the substantial part of our meal, the 
table is cleared, and, as a kind of dessert, each one is 
helped to tea, coffee, or chocolate, and rolls. 

From twelve to two is the universal hour for the siesta ; 
gentlemen of business in the city do not indulge in it 
often, although banking houses and stores are open at 
6 a. m. The siesta is considered very healthy, and is 
recommended by physicians in this climate. 

Mrs. Sosa always assembles her family in the private 
chapel at three for a half hour's devotion. We then 
dress for dinner, which we take at five or half-past. 

I like the cooking better than I expected. It is all 
that of a professed cook. Fish they cook in a most 



84 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

delicious manner, and they have a great variety of excellent 
soups. Beef, sometimes ham, rice, plantains, and some 
dishes incomprehensible to a foreigner, after fish and 
soup, is the ordinary dinner here, with dessert of preserves, 
jellies, etc. Tea is passed in the parlor at half-past six 
to those who like it. Only one or two of the family 
take it. 

I forgot to say that our lunch always consists of fruit ; 
and since I came here I have so often wished I could 
•share with you some of these delicious fruits I am enjoy- 
ing. They are so juicy, that they are most refreshing, 
when prepared with sugar and ice. Every day they 
bring me some new kind of fruit. 

I think I have devoted quite enough to the cuisine, 
dear sister ; but I knew you had some curiosity about it. 
In a strange country it forms quite an important feature. 

Birthdays are universally celebrated, and since families 
here are usually very large, scarcely a week passes in 
which the " cumpleanos " of one or two members is not 
celebrated. Since our arrival there have been five or 
six in which this family are interested. 

On these occasions, the family, uncles, aunts, cousins, 
and intimate friends are expected to call, and each one 
sends some token of remembrance. Sometimes the pres- 
ents are very elegant, sometimes they are flowers and 
rare fruits. There is on the occasion a family dinner- 
party. If the person is of consideration in the city, a 
bull-fight takes place ! A young lady who is very much 
admired is certain to have her " cumpleanos " celebrated 
in this manner, as some one of her admirers is sure to 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 85 

institute a bull-fight in her honor ! In these cases, the 
bull is fought in front of the house of the person for 
whom the festivities are intended. The first bull-fight I 
witnessed was opposite this house, in honor of Michalita 
Sosa, on her nineteenth birthday. It took place two days 
after our arrival. 

You do not know how I have wished to have you here 
to see these strange sights, and talk over our impressions 
of them together. I nearly die laughing all to myself 
when I see the part I am taking in these performances ! 
But to return to the celebration. Often a ball concludes 
these festivities, and always lasts till daylight. 

I attended, a few evenings since, a " cumpleanos " at 
Mr. Manuel Sosa's house. He is a fine, gentlemanly 
man of forty-five. He was educated in France and Eng- 
land, and therefore speaks both languages well. He 
makes quite a pet of his " prima Americana " (American 
cousin), as I am called ! He was a widower for many 
years. He has one daughter by his first wife, about 
eighteen years old (almost a blonde), who, from her love- 
liness of disposition, has gained from her family the pet 
name of " Angelita." 

The young ladies told me at this ball I would meet 
some of the most aristocratic people of Panama. Mr. 
Sosa and his family are very exclusive. About two years 
ago Mr. Sosa married again, and this ball was in honor 
of the " cumpleanos " of their little daughter, one year 
old ! The child is a great pet, and, the family being an 
influential one, she was loaded with presents. Jewelry, 
beautiful dresses, exquisitely embroidered chemises, a set 



86 JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 

of handkerchiefs with her initials worked upon them, 
cases of perfumery, fans, etc., etc., were displayed on a 
beautiful crib which stood in Mrs. Sosa's room. 

Mrs. Sosa has no piano ; but, as I was to be there, one 
was brought there, so that I could sing. They are pas- 
sionately fond of music. I was called upon to sing pretty 
often, and could not refuse. 

Dancing was kept up till near morning. The Amer- 
ican dances have been introduced here almost to the 
exclusion of the beautiful and graceful Spanish dances. 
Some of the ladies expressed to me their great regret at 
the introduction of these "precipitate dances," which 
they said must be injurious to the health in this climate, 
and which appear to them far from ladylike, when com- 
pared to their graceful Spanish dances, of which there is 
a great variety. I saw some mothers in horror when 
their daughters were whirled past them in the rapid 
redowa ! 

August $th. — Darling Rho : I have received dear 
mother's short letter, giving an account of that dreadful 
riot in New York ; and it was so vividly portrayed to my 
imagination that every sound startled me, and I could 
scarcely carry on a conversation all that day. 

We have had no papers from home, but the consul has 
been very kind in sending me his. 

Yesterday, one of the soldiers died, calling for a priest 
in vain, — thanks to the government. . 

Adieu, my dear, dear sister. Love to you and John, 
and kisses by the dozen to little Pamela, from your devoted 
sister, Jenny C. White del Bal. 



JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 87 



Ball at the house of the Peruvian Consul — Paganini — Customs — Etiquette 
at a Ball. 

Panama, August yt/t, 1863. 

My darling Mother, — Friends have 

arrived from Santiago de Veragues, and say that we are 
anxiously expected by Bernardino's father, family, and 
friends, and all regret that I should arrive at a time 
among them when political affairs should have cast such 
a gloom over Santiago. Here, also, they feel very sad 
on account of the state of religion. 

I have met many of the most respectable families here, 
and I am much pleased with them. The ladies are 
naturally more than ordinarily intelligent, and in inter- 
course with them you do not remark a want of education, 
although their advantages have not been great. The 
gentlemen whom I have met are all accomplished 
scholars. 

We attended a ball, given by the Peruvian consul, a 
few evenings since. The balconies were illuminated, 
and in the early part of the evening we had fireworks. 
The ball-room was in the second story. The staircases, 
which are very broad, were arched over with branches of 
palm. At the door-way, and on either side of the stairs 
leading to the ball-room, negro soldiers in full uniform 
were posted as sentinels. The whole house was bril- 
liantly lighted. The ball-room, a very large one, was 
beautifully decorated with the flags of the different South 



88 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

American republics, and of England, France, and the 
United States. 

The band was a very good one, under the direction of 
a colored man, who plays so remarkably on the violin 
that he is known only as Paganini, — a name given him 
some years since in compliment to his proficiency as 
violinist. All musical artists who have passed through 
here have complimented him highly. He plays for two 
dollars an hour. The band for the evening at the ball, 
Julian Sosa told me, would cost about seventy-five dol- 
lars, and Paganini had to be sent for and sent home in a 
carriage, because he was indisposed ! 

When I entered the main door with Bernardino, and 
passed through to the head of the room to salute the lady 
presiding, the scene presented to me was a beautiful one. 
The bright lights, gay flags, glittering jewels, and bright 
eyes of the ladies produced quite a dazzling effect. As 
soon as I was seated, the American consul's wife came 
and sat by me. 

The governor, foreign consuls, commanders of the dif- 
ferent foreign frigates, and all the aristocracy of Panama 
were there, and did credit to the old city. I was treated 
with much attention. All the notabilities and persons of 
distinction were presented to me. The commandant of 
our frigate here is a very agreeable man. I was invited 
to dance almost every time from ten till half-past five, 
a. M., when the ball closed. 

There were about one hundred and fifty present. The 
ladies were dressed in the latest Parisian fashions, and 
the jewels displayed were magnificent. Michalita Sosa 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 89 

wore ear-rings, solitaires, and a cross with seven very 
large diamonds in it and yet she was among those who 
wore fewest. 

The ball appeared like a New York ball ; but there is 
no conversation between the ladies and gentlemen except 
during the dances. As soon as the dance is concluded, 
the young lady is conducted to a seat near her mother, 
and the gentleman takes his leave. When a gentleman 
invites a lady to dance a waltz, polka, or redowa, she is 
engaged to him so long as the piece is played, and can 
neither sit down nor dance with any other gentleman 
until the piece is ended. When fatigued, they promenade. 
If it happens that there are more gentlemen than ladies, 
sometimes the gentlemen, who have not been fortunate 
enough to secure partners, ask the more favored ones to 
lend them one for a while, — which is done, the lady having 
nothing to say ; and, at the conclusion of the dance, she 
is returned to her original partner, who thanks her for 
having danced with him, and leads her to her seat . . . 
So much for etiquette at a Spanish ball .... 

During the evening, cake, ice-cream, wine, and punch 
were frequently passed around. At half-past two we had an 
elegant supper. Much of the confectionery was new to me. 

About four o'clock there was a movement among some 
of the guests to leave, when we found that the consul had 
given orders to the sentinels to detain the company as 
prisoners till daybreak ! Mr. Rubis, the consul, did all 
in his power to entertain his guests delightfully, and 
succeeded. Light broke in upon us, and we reached 
home at six a. m. 



90 JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 

My heart has been too severely tried to allow me much 
enjoyment, or to allow me to enter with spirit into these 
gayeties. I tried, for many reasons, to be as gay as possi- 
ble ; and I think I have left the impression, by my visit in 
Panama, that I am very lively. Poor Bernardino seemed 
so happy to see me gay that I would not let him know I 
did not feel as I seemed. 

Mrs. Alba de Arosemena gave me a very pleasant 
party last week. I sang a great deal " to a most enthu- 
siastic audience." There seems to be a great deal of 
musical taste here. The selections they made showed an 
acquaintance with the best operas. 

I never knew how much Bernardino and I loved one 
another, until I saw that with all my dreadful homesick- 
ness I am happy with him. But I keep my heart fixed on 
the thought and hope of my return to New York, — and 
then what happiness that will give me ! Do write to me 
of dear father's health ; he looked so pale the day I left. 
I dream of home every night. I think of all I have left 
behind, but could not name them. (Thank God I have so 
many friends !) Give my love to each one of my loved 
family in Binghamton, Detroit, and Washington, in Man- 
hattanville, and Georgetown. Also to the good fathers in 
St. Francis Xavier's. 

I know you are anxious to learn what I wore at the 
Peruvian consul's ball. My white silk dress, with very 
handsome deep-red roses and other flowers on the shoul- 
ders and front of the dress, — the waist you remember is 
a beautiful one, — a train quite long, and skirt short in 
front ; a coronet-shaped wreath, formed of beautiful roses, 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 91 

buds, and exquisite white flowers, in my hair, — my hair 
plain, not rolled back in front. 

I am expecting letters from you, dear mother, and can- 
not think of anything else. I am ashamed of my letters ; 
but they are written with so many talking around me, and 
amid so many interruptions, you must excuse them. You 
I know, dear mother, prefer that I should not wait until 
all my surroundings could contribute to the elegance of 
my composition. 

I am most anxious to hear from dear Frank. God pre- 
serve him from danger ! * 

Bernardino joins me in devoted love to each one of my 
dear ones at home. 

Pray for your devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

P. S. — One evening I sang with patriotic spirit "John 
Brown," and so inspired my New Grenadian friends that 
they joined in chorus ! 



The following letter, written to Jenny's sister in the 
convent, will explain to what an extent she was obliged 
to exert her heroic nature to hide from those kind friends 
who surrounded her the wounds so recently inflicted upon 
her sensitive heart. 

But it was Jenny's nature to be generous, — and such 
generosity is truly a supernatural virtue. The music and 

* Her brother, Gen. F. J. White, in the army. 



92 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 

the dance, till lately so charming to her, now touched a 
chord in her soul that only awakened sadness indescriba- 
ble ; and yet, who of that festive scene, which she has so 
minutely described for our benefit, could have believed 
that her bright face, beaming with smiles, concealed from 
the world an aching heart ? And why ? She knew that 
her husband loved her devotedly, and that it was his pride 
to present his American wife to his family, whom he had 
represented to them would be the light of their home. 
She must therefore join in the festivities prepared for her 
welcome with cheerfulness. To do so was an act of 
heroic generosity ! To hide the maternal grief still so 
deep, and the pangs of the parting from a home such as 
she had left, was sublime charity, — charity such as only 
the grace of God can give ; and such was Jenny's charity ; 
for God was preparing her to fulfil a great and noble 
mission. 



A birthday Letter to her Sister in the Convent— Jenny's real Grief— Arrival of 
General Mosquera announced in Panama. 

} Panama, August nth, 1863. 

My dear Nell, — How I wish, my darling sister, that 
I could throw my arms around your neck, and give you 
your birthday kiss ! But, darling, God has thought it best 
to separate me from all I love on earth, except my hus- 
band ; and to his divine will I bow, I hope, although what 
it costs me cannot be told. 

Four months ago to-day, my little angel was laid in the 
cathedral, and I looked for the last time on the form of 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 93 

my boy, whom to save, nothing would have been too 
great to suffer myself. But God knows what is best for 
us all. Dear Aunt Mary Ann,* four months ago, re- 
ceived her reward, and is now I hope praying for me. 

A year ago to-day, Nell, we were at Fort Lee together. 
Do you remember? What changes have taken place 
since then ! You to-day, I suppose, have just been to 
holy communion. While our blessed Lord is with you in 
his sacramental presence, I am here deprived even of 
mass. 

Several have died here without the sacraments. We 
all hope that things have gone to such an extreme that 
they cannot last, and that laws will be passed that will 
leave the Church free, and it will come out of this trial 
purified and active. 

The ladies here are all pious, — many very pious. We 
go to the churches to say novenas, stations,! and rosaries ; 
but I cannot kneel as these ladies can. They can kneel 
for hours, I believe, without any support. 

There is a Presbyterian minister, who has a Sunday- 
school and prayer-meeting for the Jamaicans and Amer- 
icans. I am anxious to know if he took the prescribed 
oath. The first time I meet the governor or secretary of 
state I must inquire about it. 

Since Mosquera's party has triumphed, the government 
is completely in the hands of the negroes. They are in 

*Miss Griffin,— Gerald Griffin's sister. 

f Novena — nine days' prayer for one object. Stations — the different 
agonies of the way to the cross, meditated upon, and prayers offered ask- 
ing favors through the merits of the scourging, crowning with thorns, etc 
9* 



94 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

great numbers in the city, and since the Liberals (so 
called) are in power, they are extremely insolent. They 
call one another "Don" and "Senor," and the richer 
ones saunter along the streets dressed in the height of 
the fashion. They have elected almost all the aldermen 
and members of the legislature from among the negroes, 
mulattoes, and quadroons, I believe. 

Just now we were aroused by a firing of guns and 
beating of drums, and, on inquiry, find that the " great 
General Mosquera " has arrived ! I suppose the Liberals 
will give him a great reception. I wonder whether they 
will be all negroes ? They say that when Santa Coloma 
came here (commander of the troops sent by Mosquera), 
he was given a dinner ; and, to his surprise and dis- 
pleasure, when the company assembled, there were but 
two or three white men present ! 

They say that the last steamer carried to the Bank of 
England seven hundred thousand dollars, to be deposited 
there, belonging to General Mosquera. If this be true, 
revolutionizing a country seems to be a money-making 
business. 

My dear Nell, I suppose your time of probation is 
nearly over, and that you will soon take the veil. I hope 
you will pray for me on that day. Bernardino still in- 
sists that you were intended for South America, rather 
than a convent ! Do ask Madam Hardy to have prayers 
said for this country, and for me that I may be fervent 
and pious. Give my love to dear Aunt Kate. 

My dear sister, it is a charity to write to me ; so do 
not neglect it. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 95 

Mrs. Sosa desires to unite herself in some way to your 
order by uniting in your prayers. She is one of the most 
saintly women I ever knew. 

Pray excuse my letters ; they are written while my new 
cousins are talking around me. Pray for your devoted 
sister, Jenny. 



Unexpected Appearance of Spanish Men-of-war — A warm Welcome — A Ball 
given to them — Magnificent Dress and Jewels — Priests expatriated — 
Vicar- General in Prison. 

Panama, August 22d, 1863. 

My darling Mother, — I dread going 

to Santiago, for I will have to again endure the pangs 
of my first homesickness among strangers. I will 
miss Mrs. Sosa and her family very much. I will also 
be farther off from my letters from home, which will add 
much to my pain at being so far from you all. I have 
no doubt, dear mother, I will after a time be very happy, 
for I am sure of a kind and affectionate welcome. 

I received, a few days ago, a beautiful letter from 
Manuela, Bernardino's sister, whose husband was killed 
in the last revolution. She wrote most beautifully, and 
consoled me for the loss of my darling baby. They are 
expecting us daily ; and Julianna, who has had my room 
ready for a month, is becoming quite impatient. We our- 
selves are worn out with the delay of the vessel. There 
seems a spell upon us that keeps us from Santiago. 



96 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

The city has been in a state of excitement the past ten 
days over the arrival at this port of the Spanish men-of- 
war. There are four or five frigates under the command 
of General Pinzon. They are visiting the different 
Pacific ports, — their object a scientific one, they say, 
although they number from fifteen hundred to two thou- 
sand men, — rather a large number for scientific purposes 
only. It is the first time in forty-two years that a Spanish 
man-of-war has been seen here ; not since the indepen- 
dence of Colombia. 

The people gave them a warm welcome. The leading 
Spaniards (about ten here) among whom is Bernardino's 
cousin, — whose house and grounds I have described to 
you, — a Mr. Yeaza, determined to give them a ball. 
Wishing to invite a large company and make them com- 
fortable, no private house could be found large enough. 
Permission was granted to use the city hall for the oc- 
casion. The hall where the legislature meets is a large 
square room in the second story, extending almost entirely 
across the width of the building, with very large win- 
dows opening upon a covered porch nearly as large as 
the room, the roof of which is supported by six large 
stone pillars. 

The front of the building was beautifully decorated 
with two thousand colored lamps, arranged in the form of 
stars and crowns. In the arches between the pillars were 
the following transparencies beautifully and tastefully 
painted : — 

" i st. To General Pinzon and his Officers. 2d. The 
Arms or Shields of Spain. 3d. A simple Tribute of Affec- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 9 

tion. 4th. The Columbian Shield. 5th. Offered by their 
Countrymen." 

The gentleman who gave the ball invited the wife of 
the French consul, and Mrs. Herrara, sister of General 
Herrara, to receive the guests. A niece of this lady, 
Panchita Herrara, was educated at the Sacred Heart, 
Manhattanville. Bernardino and I received the following 
invitation — (I give it, because it is unlike our custom at 
a public ball, and I like it. Ladies presiding give more 
elegance and dignity to a festivity than can be given by 
a committee of gentlemen, as in the States) : — 

" Anna de Tet'tner y Josefa Herrara, in the name of 
several of the subjects of her Catholic Majesty, invites you 
to a ball given by them, in the saloon of the City Hall, in 
honor of his Excellency Admiral Pinzon, of the Scientific 
Commission, and the officers of the Spanish squadron 
now visiting the port." 

I did not wish to go, for, our religious condition is so 
terrible, I did not think it right ; but they all persuaded 
me to accept the invitation. They wished me to see a 
fine ball here, and they said I was going to Santiago, 
where there will be no gayety, on account of the last 
terrible revolution, which has plunged the city into the 
greatest gloom. 

The main hall, leading to the ball-room, appeared a 
perfect bower of palms. The walls of the ball-room, 
supper-room, and dressing-rooms were entirely covered 
with flags of different nations. The Columbian colors — 
red, blue, and yellow — formed the canopies, centre- 
pieces, and large, handsomely painted shields. The 



98 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. , 

ladies' dressing-room had a large toilette table covered 
with vases of flowers, and every variety of exquisite po- 
made and perfumery in elegant bottles, sofas, chairs, and 
large mirrors. At the head of the ball-room the Spanish 
and Columbian flags were gracefully grouped. The room 
was lighted with chandeliers and side lights in abundance. 
The music consisted of the Panama band, led by Paga- 
nini, and thirty-six instruments sent by the admiral. The 
supper was under the direction of a celebrated Spanish 
cook, and it was equal to one of Delmonico's best. There 
was everything the country could afford in substantials, 
— game, boned turkey, etc., and an endless variety of 
confectionery. We all sat down to the table to enjoy it 
comfortably. Green-seal champagne and the most costly 
wines flowed in abundance. The tables were decorated 
beautifully ; flowers and lights in profusion. The various 
pyramids and dishes were ornamented with the Spanish 
flag, one of which, dear mother, I send you as a remem- 
brance. 

There were fifty officers present from the squadron. 
The captain of the English man-of-war and some of his 
officers and the commander of the American man-of-war 
were also invited guests. The Spanish officers were all 
elegant-looking men, some of them quite young. Their 
uniform is handsome, and many of them wore medals and 
decorations. The English commander was loaded with 
medals and decorations. 

I danced every piece but one till five in the morning ! 
So, again, I came home by daylight. I danced with many 
of the Spanish officers, and the American commander 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 99 

took me completely under his protection. I do not know 
how many times I danced with him. I presume the poor 
man felt glad to see a countrywoman. 

The dresses of the ladies were very handsome, and 
their jewels magnificent. Some ladies wore many thou- 
sands of dollars' worth of diamonds that evening. There 
are some large fortunes in Panama. A gentleman of this 
place died not long since, and left eighteen brothers and 
sisters ! To each one he left three thousand dollars a 
year. 

Families of twelve are considered small. Sixteen and 
eighteen common, — twenty frequent. And one lady 
here has thirty-two children. 

The gentlemen who gave the ball appointed several 
committees of gentlemen to assist them, — one for the sup- 
per, one for the decorations, one for the music, etc., etc., 
and each had a carte-blanche to expend as he liked ; the 
only condition being that everything should be as elegant 
as possible. Ten gentlemen divided the expenses be- 
tween them. 

The enthusiasm with which all entered into this wel- 
come of the Spaniards has, it is thought, a political 
significance. 

Mosquera has committed a great blunder in interfering 
with religion ; some, who would be his partisans politically, 
withdrew from conscientious scruples. 

Nearly all the ladies and many of the gentlemen would 
be glad to be again under Spanish rule. At present 
public opinion is 'only half expressed ; but this is the 
way all great changes are foreshadowed. 



100 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

I am greatly depressed on account of the state of 
religion. Our new governor, Santa Coloma, has come. 
It was a mistake that Mosquera had arrived, as I wrote in 
my last. It was Santa Coloma. He is popular with the 
Liberals, they say, but is a willing executor of Mosquera's 
laws. He called upon the priests to take the prescribed 
oath. They replied, in an excellent letter, that as citizens 
they were willing to obey the laws, however arbitrary, but 
refused to obey the law relative to divine worship. He 
replied that the law was Mosquera's, and that he was 
there to execute the law, and that they had forty-eight 
hours to decide, at the expiration of which time, if they 
still refused, they must leave the country. The forty- 
eight hours expired to-day at one o'clock. I hear that 
the vicar-general says he has committed no crime, and 
that he will not leave voluntarily ; that they must send 
him away forcibly. While I was writing the above, a 
woman came in to tell us that the vicar-general is in 
prison — and done so quietly ! No threats, no expostula- 
tions can move the governor. 

Do pray for us, dear mother, for indeed it seems as if 
the evil one has power here over these wicked men. 

When the priests were exiled last winter, and the 
churches closed as we have found them, they left the 
keys with some pious ladies, in order that the building 
might be swept ; for in this climate, a closed building falls 
to ruin rapidly. 

On Sundays, therefore, pious persons meet in the 
churches, and pray together, and read aloud some pious 
work j and on week days many are found praying in 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 101 

them. It is said that to-morrow Santa Coloma is going 
to demand all the keys, and take possession himself of all 
the churches. God grant that this and the report of the 
imprisonment of the vicar-general may prove only a rumor ! 

August 23d. — My darling mother, the steamer has 
come, and brought me letters from home. You, my be- 
loved mother, are not near me, and so ill ! And my dear 
brother Frank so sick ! My last letters from home were 
lost, and I am at a loss to understand why Frank is sick 
in St. Louis, and his general (Heron) in New Orleans. 
All I have heard is that you, darling mother, took the 
fever from Frank in St. Louis. 

It makes me feel very far away to think two of my 
loved family have been sick, and I knew nothing of it till 
now. Thank God, you are better, dear mother ; but how 
I long to be with you ! I am unable to do anything the 
day my letters arrive from home 

I am preparing to leave Panama. I have been treated 
with the greatest kindness and attention, and I will say 
to you, my beloved parents, that I think the people like 
me. There is always a great deal to be pleased with in 
every place, if one is not determined only to see the dark 
side of things. 

Panama itself is an ugly-looking old city, with the ex- 
ception of the old churches ; and to me the old ruins are 
attractive, for they were fine buildings, and are now cov- 
ered with the most beautiful vines. Where the ruins are 
roofless, nature has partly supplied them with covering. 
On the highest walls, in some instances, bushes are grow- 
ing so large they might almost be called trees. 
10 



102 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Remember me, dear mother, to every 

one of my dear friends. I have not named each one, — 
that I could not do — but my thoughts are with them . . 
. . . Please send my letter to Grandmother Waterman, 
and then to Georgetown, after Kate and Nell have read 
it. Your loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



At Sea — Imminent Peril — Barely saved from Shipwreck — Preparations for 
Death — Escape — Canoe Voyage — Night on the Rio Grande — Mosquitoes 
— Jenny's Birthday. 

Nata, September 1st, 1863. 

My beloved Parents, — We are at a little town on 
our way to Santiago, where we are waiting to rest and to 
take horses. We are within one day's ride of Santiago ; 
but Bernardino fears I cannot ride so far, without fatigue, 
in one day, and we have so much baggage that we will 
not reach there until the second day. 

We came from Panama in a little sailing vessel. We 
coasted along very well, and at the end of twenty-four hours 
were near the mouth of a little river, which we were to 
ascend to reach this little town. Finding that the tide 
would not serve till eleven at midnight, the captain anch- 
ored outside to wait till that time. Unfortunately for us, 
he fell asleep, and the tide had already turned when he 
awoke ! There was nothing for us but to wait till the 



JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 103 

next, which would be at three in the afternoon. At 
about eleven, a. m. (30th August), suddenly a heavy sea 
began to roll in ; and, taking us unexpectedly, we received 
each wave on our side. For about an hour we were in 
imminent peril. The coast here is difficult, all wrecks 
being just here in sight of land. There we were in a 
small open boat, and each mountain wave after wave 
coming, lifting our little craft, seemed the last we could 
bear. The iron part of our rudder was broken very soon. 
The captain and sailors were working desperately to suc- 
ceed in turning our boat, that we might have the bow 
towards the waves. 

We held on to the side of our boat with all our strength, 
and made our preparations for death. I took off my 
heavy skirts and everything that would keep me from 
swimming. Bernardino said, " Well, Jenny dear, perhaps 
our last moments have come ; how strange that we should 
be lost at the very port ! " We said but little, for it was 
a moment too terrible for anything but prayer. 

At last they succeeded in turning the boat ; and, al- 
though it was awful to ride over the waves, as we had to 
do, it was less dangerous. The captain put out to sea. 
He said he had never experienced before anything like it 
there. It was in the Gulf of Parita. 

Monday morning, before day, we started up the Rio 
Grande. The day was spent in poling up the river, as 
far as our "velandra," as they call the boat, could go, 
and advanced some fifteen or twenty miles. Where they 
could not pole, they took a long rope and fastened it to a 
tree some distance ahead ; then bringing the rope to the 



104 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

boat, the sailors pulled on it, and thus drew us up the 
river. This is slow travelling. 

At night we anchored, and waited for canoes to come 
from Nata, about nine miles above, to take us there. 
Such a night as we spent ! I had heard of the mosquitoes 
of this climate ; but I never imagined anything so dread- 
ful as they are on the banks of this river. The people 
call it a plague ; no one can live here. Sleep was not to 
be thought of; and we hailed with delight the appear- 
ance of eight or ten mestizoes with canoes, and started 
for this place about eight, a. m. 

At first I was afraid to venture in the canoes, but I 
found them quite safe. The Rio Grande resembles in 
appearance the Chagres, though I think it is a little 
wider. The lower part is entirely uninhabited, the woods 
reaching down to the water's edge in most places. A 
few miles from the village the country begins to present 
a more cultivated appearance, and we passed several 
corn, rice, plantain, sugar-cane, and banana plantations. 

The scenery is beautiful, though lonely, from the entire 
absence, in many places, of any inhabitants. The orange, 
mango, and other tropical trees are very beautiful. 

It seemed so strange to me to travel for miles along 
this beautiful river, without hearing the sound of a human 
voice nor seeing trace of human habitation upon its banks, 
— the woods filled with birds of richest plumage, the 
trees with monkeys and screaming parrots, and the air 
resounding with the croaking of frogs. 

I am so fatigued that I can give you but little idea of 
my journey. I have taken out my desk to write only a 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 105 

short letter, for I must prepare to leave here. I am most 
anxious to hear from you, my darling mother, and from 
my dear brother Frank. You, dearest Rho, do occupy a 
large portion of my thoughts. There have been many 
prayers offered up for you, * and I believe they will be 

heard We leave to-morrow morning 

about three o'clock, a. m., please God. 

Imagine Bernardino and I heading the train, each on 
horseback, followed by eight mules or horses heavily 
laden, with four men mounted as servants to take charge 
of the baggage, and you will have an idea of the appear- 
ance our cavalcade will present on entering the town of 
Santiago. 

My heart and thoughts are with you all at home ; but 
want of time prevents me from expressing half I feel. 
I know your anxiety to hear every detail of my journey. 

To dear Grandmother Waterman give my love, and tell 
her that on this my birthday, in this far-distant land, 
how much I have dwelt on the birthdays I have spent so 
happily with her. I would write to her ; but in this dis- 
agreeable place, and fatigue from which I suffer, I could 
not write such a letter as I would like to send to her. 

Barnardino joins in love to each one of our dear, dear 
family. ; 

My beloved parents' devoted child, L 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

* Jenny had only been absent from home a little more than two months. 
During that time, her mother, brother Frank, and sister, Mrs. Mack, had 
been at death's door in illness, and she and her husband barely escaped 
shipwreck and death! 
10* 



106 JENNY C, WHITE DEL BAL. 

In Jenny's home, birthdays were occasions of great 
festivity. These " home parties," as they were named, 
will long be remembered, by every member of the family, 
as scenes of unalloyed enjoyment to parents and children. 

"Weeks before the anticipated days, preparations for 
their celebration gave the whole household a pleasure 
which was only equalled by the realization of happiness, 
when the looked-for night came and shed a light upon 
the home circle which no care or toil could obscure. 

Sometimes for the parents' feasts Jenny would prepare 
a concert or an opera, as a surprise. With indefatigable 
industry and patience, she would train her troupe (the 
younger children), and a complete success was sure to be 
the result. During the rehearsals repeated peals of 
laughter would rise from the parlor; for during the most 
solemn parts of her play or opera, the refractory boys, 
Frank and Tom, would be sure to upset the gravity of the 
performers by an ill-timed jest or inappropriate gesture. 
But Jenny was sure to gain control in the end by a sweet 
and gentle decision of character, peculiarly her own, 
which proved so valuable to her later when she controlled 
thousands. The person, for whom this labor of love was 
performed, was expected neither to hear nor see anything 
which was going on in the house two or three weeks pre- 
vious to the great evening. But on that evening the 
honored one was in every respect queen or king of the 
night, to whom each and all paid homage heartily. 
Jenny's feast was a favorite day in the family. She was 
the oldest grandchild on both sides of the house, and 
much beloved. Her grandparents never forgot the first of 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 107 

September, her birthday. And her Grandmother Water- 
man, in whose house she was born, claimed the right of 
celebrating it in the old homestead very frequently. Ii is 
not surprising then that Jenny found it a sad day in that 
far-distant home, — and the memories of the past must 
have filled her heart to overflowing. < : 



Arrival at Santiago— Mrs. del Bal the first American Lady ever in that part of the 
World — Her warm Welcome — Description of the Journey from the Port of 
Nata to Santiago — Nata — A rich Mestizo — Poor of Nata — Beautiful 
Scene — Terrible Thunder-storm — Night under a Tree — Dreadful Thunder- 
storm — Escort to Santiago — Arrival there — Enthusiastic Reception — Ser- 
vants' Opinion of the " Nina Jenny." 

Santiago, September %th, 1863. 

My beloved Parents and dear Ones at Home, — 
At last I have arrived at this renowned city of Santiago. 
I can scarcely realize it myself yet. Still when I think of 
you all, dearly loved ones, and of my happy, happy home, 
I feel that I have indeed wandered far away. My heart 
swells with thoughts of those who have made my life so 
pleasant by their loving kindness, and then I realize I 
have indeed left father, mother, sisters, and brothers, 
family and friends, to come to this far-distant land. 

It is almost ungrateful to the kind family here to give 
way to sadness, for there is nothing they leave undone to 
console me. I may say it is ungrateful to the whole 
town. High and low, rich and poor, come to try and do 



108 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

something for " Don Bernardino's wife, poor little thing, 
who is so far from home." 

The affection and respect evinced towards Bernardino 
and his family, all the way from Panama, was very grati- 
fying. Wherever we stopped along the road, and the 
people discovered who we were, their faces lighted up 
with pleasure, and they tried to do what they could for 
" Don Bernardino del Bal." 

I am a perfect curiosity, and have been regularly ex- 
hibited as I came along ! I am the first American lady 
ever seen in this part of the world ! So you may imagine 
the excitement my arrival has caused. 

We have had, they say, the most trying and tedious 
journey ever made between Panama and Santiago. There 
seems to be some fate about it. I have spoken to several 
who have made the trip in two or three days, with none 
of the disagreeables which we encountered in our nine 
days' journey. I wrote to you, my darling parents, giving 
you an account of our voyage to that place. 

The boats running from Panama to these ports are 
most uncomfortable.* There was a little hole in the 
stern, which they called a cabin ! This Bernardino hired, 
that, in case of rain, I might be protected from the weather. 
We could not stand upright in it. It was only the width 
of two berths, and swarming with cockroaches a half finger 
long, ants, and, I believe, rats, — though these last I did 
not see ; — the air so close, you could scarcely breathe. 

* This difficulty is now removed. Small steamboats now run from 
Panama to the ports, and render the voyage quite pleasant and safe. 



JENNY C, WHITE DEL BAL. 109 

We carried our own provisions, which were cooked by a 
very good cook they had oh board. 

We arrived at Nata about mid-day on our fifth day from 
Panama. The house at which we were to stop was at the 
opposite end of the town ; so, in order to reach it, we had 
to walk through the village. 

There are four kinds of houses on the Isthmus. First, 
the rancho, which is made of a kind of reed, or clay, with 
a thatched roof. Second, a class of houses also made of 
clay, but with a standing roof, tiled instead of thatched, 
and a portal or flagged porch. Third, frame cottage 
houses, with sloping roof. Fourth, two-story brick or 
wooden houses. Of these latter there are very few in the 
interior, most of the largest houses being but one story 
high. Nata contains from one to two hundred of the 
poorest class of houses, with two or three brick houses. 
It is a forlorn, dirty-looking place, the oldest town on 
the Isthmus, and was at one time a place of great wealth, 
but it has been entirely abandoned by people of respect- 
ability, and is inhabited by Mestizoes (a mixture of 
Indian and Spanish races) and negroes. It is beautifully 
situated on a large plain that stretches down to the Rio 
Chica. In it is a fine old brick church, the main altar 
and tabernacle of which; is entirely covered with heavy 
silver elaborately carved. There is also a hospital, with 
a very good chapel attached. 

When I walked through the town, the people crowded 
to the doors to see me, evidently regarding me with won- 
der and amazement. A real live American lady ! 

The Mestizo woman, of whom we obtained the house 



110 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

in Nata, was living in one of the tiled class, everything 
around her as poor as could be ; and yet, on inquiry, we 
found she owned several of those houses, — has a large 
farm on the river, on which she raises rice, corn, sugar- 
cane, and plantains ; has a distillery for making the 
aguardiente of the country, one or two hundred horses, 
several hundred head of cattle, and fowl in abundance. 
Only a day before we arrived she had an ox killed to 
give to the poor. The poor here are always sick or 
infirm. 

We were prevented from leaving as early as we desired 
to leave this disagreeable place by an accident not un- 
frequent. One of our horses strayed away, and could 
not be caught until six, a. m. 

Then followed the loading of the horses. To me, un- 
accustomed to see them carry such loads, it was wonder- 
ful. One carried my large black trunk, a box with a 
sewing-machine, several heavy articles packed between, 
with perfect ease. My great Saratoga trunk excited 
much curiosity, and gave much trouble, it was so un- 
wieldy. It was the first seen here, and is not suitable 
for this kind of conveyance. At length everything was 
ready, and we sallied forth amid the " adios " and prayers 
for a safe journey of a crowd of people whom our depart- 
ure had collected together. 

The road, which, by the way, is called "The Royal 
Road," between Santiago and Panama, in summer is an 
excellent one ; but the rains at this season make it so 
muddy, and wear such deep gullies in it, that in some 
places it is rendered almost impassable. There had been 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. Ill 

at this time no rain near Nata for several days, and the 
road when we started was in pretty good order. 

We rode on very pleasantly, our way lying partly 
through beautiful woods, but mostly across lovely plains. 
These present the appearance of a beautifully laid-out 
lawn of mammoth proportions, being agreeably diversified 
by numerous clumps of fine trees and bushes, — the green 
grass short as if lately mowed. These prairies are 
bounded on every side by trees, above which rise the 
peaks of the Cordilleras. Gurgling brooks and some- 
times quite large streams wind their way through these 
meadows. The whole scene is enlivened by the presence 
of large herds of beautiful cattle and horses. 

Our baggage train was slowly wending its way along ; 
Bernardino and I were enthusiastically enjoying the 
beauty of the view before us, so like a garden of Eden, 
I thinking, dear mother, how much you would enjoy such 
a ride on horseback, — when suddenly clouds gathered in 
the sky, and before we could reach a place of shelter 
they burst in torrents of cold water (such as you, who 
know not " a rainy season," cannot imagine) upon our 
enthusiasm! We rode as fast as we could to reach a 
house in the middle of the plain, but found it closed and 
had to take refuge in the porch ; the family who owned 
the hacienda (plantation) upon which we were travelling 
having gone into town for the winter. After the shower 
passed we started on wet enough ; but there was no help 
for it. Bernardino made me take a little brandy to pre- 
vent me from taking cold. 

We passed the Rio Chica early. This being the first 



112 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

river I had to ford, I was quite timid, although in reality 
it was not half as bad as some of the smaller streams I 
afterwards crossed ; it had a good gravel bottom, whereas 
the brooks were so muddy that the horses stumbled and 
fell. 

It was at this ford they fought the battle last year, in 
which poor Guadia was killed (son of the priest I wrote 
to you who called upon me in Panama, and spoke so 
touchingly of the loss of his son). 

We expected to have spent the night on the side of the 
Santa Maria river, but my unfortunate Saratoga trunk fell 
off the horse so often, we lost a great deal of time try- 
ing to arrange that and the machine properly on the poor 
horse's back. Night overtook us on one of the plains on 
the wrong side of the river, and out of sight of any 
house. 

The men said they would encamp under a large tree in 
the middle of the plain, but said a little farther on was a 
sugar plantation, owned by one of the Guadia family, and 
that there we would find a house. The road, by this time, 
after the rain, was too bad to attempt to take our baggage ; 
but two of the men went with us to show us the way 
and attend to the horses. It was now so dark I could 
not see the road. I gave the reins to my horse, and fol- 
lowed as best I could, or rather my horse followed the 
guide. Bernardino rode close behind me. At length we 
came to a little stream with quite a steep muddy bank. 
What was my horror to see my guide's horse stumble in 
the mud and fall in the stream ! I was afraid to follow, 






JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 113 

and at last, after much delay, he found a better pass, and 
one of the men led my horse across. 

Fatigued, we arrive at the house. We saw no sign of 
light, and, after shouting and calling some time, had to 
admit it was unoccupied. We would have entered it, but 
had no light with us, and without it the men said we 
would probably find snakes in the vacated apartments. 
What was to be done ? Nothing but to retrace our steps 
and spend the night under the tree. Back we started. I 
was so fatigued, from the unaccustomed length of my 
ride, that I could hardly hold myself on my horse. On 
arriving at the camping-ground our horses were unloaded, 
a large fire kindled, and our supper prepared. Tea 
made, meat roasted, eggs boiled, and a cold roast chicken, 
with excellent crackers, made us a good meal, to which 
we did ample justice. 

The men took the skins that covered the cargo, and 
made a little tent for me ; my bed was prepared on the 
trunks and covered with blankets and cloaks. 

The moon and stars shone clear and bright, making 
it nearly as light as day, the fire burned brightly, the men 
were rolled in blankets, and laid down around it; not a 
sound was heard but the crackling of the wood fire and 
the sound of the horses cropping the grass under the tree, 
and the occasional lonely croaking of the frogs. I was 
afraid of the snakes ; but a half-Indian guide assured me 
there were none here. 

I was very much afraid of taking cold from sleeping 

in wet clothes; but I proved, what many others have 

done, that cold is seldom taken in these expeditions. 
11 



114 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Early in the morning they brought me cool water from 
the brook, and, bathing my face and hands, I felt quite 
refreshed. I thought so often of you, dearest mother, 
and your desire to " camp out " ! It is less enchanting 
than you imagine ! I did not regret having spent this 
night as I did; it was something new, and I enjoyed it. 

Just as we were starting, I cast my eyes upon the 
ground, and saw a large snake. I screamed, and jumped 
away from the spot, you may be sure. Bernardino and 
the men despatched him with stones and knives, but not 
until he had made a good fight. The men thought he 
had spent the night under my trunks, upon which I had 
slept ! 

We rode to the Santa Maria river, and crossed it in a 
canoe. This was a slow affair. First Bernardino and I 
crossed ; the horses were unloaded, and the baggage 
taken over, and then the horses. It was not until two, 
p. m., that we were ready to continue our journey. 

While waiting there, Bernardino took me to see the 
sugar plantation owned by Mr. Guadia, and to his sugar 
mill. This has not been in operation since the revolution 
last year. 

On the bank of the river one of our men killed a spider 
as big as a toad ! The bite of these mountain-spiders is 
poisonous. I had to extract four or five insects from my 
flesh ; their bite is painful, but not poisonous. 

A short distance after leaving the river, we came to the 
country-house of Mr. Guadia, the owner of the sugar 
plantation. They invited us to remain and rest, and 
expressed much sorrow that we had not been able to 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 115 

reach their house the night before. I was much pleased 
with Mr. and Mrs. Guadia. We hastened on, wishing to 
arrive before dark at Santa Rosa, the hacienda of Mr. 
Francisco Fabrega, who is now an exile in Central 
America. 

We rode on till four o'clock pleasantly ; but then the 
clouds above us grew suddenly fearfully dark, the wind 
began to whistle through the trees ; a storm of thunder, 
lightning, wind, and rain, such as I hope never to witness 
again, burst upon us. We dismounted and sought shelter 
under some trees. I, who was never afraid of lightning 
before, was now really terrified. Flash succeeded flash 
so rapidly that there was a continuous roll of thunder, — 
but such thunder as we never hear in the States. The 
noise was fearful ! The horses were almost blinded by 
the wind and rain. 

After waiting fifteen minutes, the men came to Bernar- 
dino, saying, "There is no hope for us but to push 
forward with all possible speed. We are near no house, 
and have a river to ford, which, if we do not cross before 
it is swollen by this storm, will be impassable, and we 
will have to spend the night on its banks." The road, 
which, fifteen minutes before, was dry, was filled with 
little streams of water, rushing along with great force. 
It is almost incredible how soon these roads are affected 
by these storms. I did not dare ride, being drenched by 
by the rain. I started off through mud and rain, and 
great pools of water, hoping the exercise would prevent 
me from taking cold* 

* What heroic patience ! 



116 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

On arriving at the little river, it was just beginning to 
rise ; but the storm had subsided, and by dint of blows 
and screams the horses were forced across. 

We now came upon the hacienda of Mr. Fabrega. 
It was like the haciendas I have described passing through 
my first day's ride : beautiful prairies, upon which hun- 
dreds of cattle were feeding, occasionally interspersed 
with woodlands. 

About dark we rode up to the house, a very pretty two- 
story frame house, commanding a magnificent view of the 
country for miles around. We were a most woe-begone 
looking company. The man and woman in charge of the 
place came out to meet us with many expressions of 
delight' at our arrival, and sorrow for the troubles we had 
encountered. 

The first one asked for was my dear little baby James, 
— not having heard of his death.* 

We changed our clothes ; they prepared us a good 
supper and gave us the best the house afforded. I as- 
sure you the comfort of a good bed was not unappreci- 
ated by us after our fatigue. 

At one, a. M., that night, one of the servant boys started 
off to Santiago to carry the news of our arrival thus far, 
knowing he would receive a present for the information. 

By the time we had breakfasted and were ready for a 
start, Bernardino was afraid the sun would make me sick 
after my fatigue, for it shone out intensely hot. We decided 
to send the baggage on ahead and wait till the cool part 

* The poor little mother was hardly strong enough, after her fatigue, to 
hear this question without tears. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 117 

of the day, having only five hours' ride before us to 
reach our home, — Santiago. 

At about three o'clock it began to rain again. As we 
were on the porch watching the clouds with anxiety, we 
saw in the distance an old gentleman and a little boy, 
followed by two servants, riding rapidly towards the house. 
They proved to be Don Santiago del Bal, Bernardino's 
father, and Aquilino, Manuela's son (Bernardino's wid- 
owed sister's son), only eight years old, and two servants, 
who had come to meet us. 

Don Santiago received us very warmly. He is over 
seventy, but is very active, speaks rapidly, and is quick 
in all his movements. His hair is almost white ; his eyes 
sparkling black ! He told us he had been accompanied 
half way by a number of gentlemen, who were now wait- 
ing to receive us at a hacienda about two hours' ride from 
Santiago. 

It rained for two hours, and then it had almost ceased. 
Julianna (Bernardino's sister) had dinner prepared for 
us ; and although Don Santiago proposed our remaining 
all night where we were, on account of the rain and our 
fatigue, I could not listen to such an arrangement, and 
disappoint Julianna. 

It was nearly dark when we left Santa Rosa. Before we 
reached the hacienda, or the house where the escort was 
awaiting us, it was so dark I could scarcely see my hand 
before me. When we arrived there, the gentlemen, who 
had ridden in the heat of the sun, and had been expect- 
ing us since two o'clock, were just making arrangements 

to spend the night. They had given us up, for they sup- 
11* 



118 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

posed I would not dare to ride over the road, so gullied 
by the rain, in the dark. Mr. Facei, the owner of the 
hacienda, insisted upon our alighting and taking a cup 
of coffee. The friends whom we found there were Mr. 
Miro (Bernardino's brother-in-law), Frank Fabrega (hus- 
band of Inez Arosemena), Calisto Fabrega, Doctor Dickson 
(an American gentleman, — the only one in Santiago ; 
no American lady, as I wrote to you, had ever been in 
Santiago), Mr. Sanchez, son of one of Bohoai's old staff. 

The road, a part of the way, was so bad we had to ride 
Indian file through the difficult passes, and every moment 
I expected to fall. Doctor Dickson fell from his horse 
twice, and Frank Fabrega once. I barely escaped, 
though the road is not as bad as the one they used to 
cross in going to California. The darkness of the night 
made the journey to me quite fearful. 

By the time we arrived at Santiago I felt the exposure 
I had endured and the fatigues of the ride, and could 
scarcely sit up. Bernardino says I have shown my 
American spirit in this journey ! 

Had we arrived by daylight, we would have been re- 
ceived by half the town a mile outside the city. We 
reached Santiago about eleven, p. m. ; and, as we rode 
in, — one " lone " American woman escorted by eleven 
horsemen, — I realized my strange position. The noise 
of our entrance no doubt alarmed some who fancied we 
were heralding another revolution. 

Our gentlemen friends — our escort — bid us adieu at 
the door of Mr. Miro's house, where we were enthusias- 
tically received by Julianna (Mr. Miro's wife), Manuela 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 119 

(his widowed sister), Petita (Bernardino's aunt), and Mr. 
Miro's sister, Fermina Leon, a widow, who lives with 
them. After supper we retired, very much fatigued. 

The next morning I wore my silk morning dress, which 
Julianna admired much. They have not worn this style 
here yet. 

Among the first visitors we received was Mica Garcia.* 
Mr. Garcia, her father, has been very attentive, and al- 
most every day since I arrived a servant appears at the 
door with a large tray filled with fine fruits or preserves, 
or some delicacies, sent with Mica's love. Don Diego 
(Mr. Garcia) sounded your praises in Panama and here, 
for your attention to him in New York. John Mark is a 
great favorite of his. 

I have a vignettoscope, through which I study, together 
with all our friends, your photographs with great pleasure. 
I brought Julianna a stereoscope with views of New York, 
which afford her and many others much pleasure. 

The servants asked the other day to look at the place 
I came from; and I heard the cook, an old colored 
woman, saying, when the Academy of Music was shown, 
that "that was the house the Nina Jenny f lived in!" 
These negro and Indian servants have the most exalted 
ideas of New York and New Yorkers, investing it with 
all the charms of fairy land. 

A couple of girls, twelve and fifteen years old, who 

* Sefiorita Mica Garcia came from Santiago to Jenny's wedding in 
New York. 

t Nina Jenny (Lady Jenny) was the name given by all to Jenny. Rich 
and poor loved to call her Nina Jenny, when they knew her well. 



120 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

wait upon me a good deal I can see, hardly dare to ap- 
proach me, and yet strive to seize an opportunity to assist 
me in arranging my dress, or wait upon me at table. One 
of them told Julianna in a mysterious whisper that "she 
had pulled down my dress, when it was tucked up," and 
that "the Nina had said ' Thank you.' " 

All the former slaves of the family have come to wel- 
come me and offer their services. 

The night after our arrival we were to have been 
serenaded, but after the band had collected together, 
their courage gave out, every one telling them that a New 
York lady would not care to hear their music. After 
waiting to summon up valor enough to brave my criticism 
until it was too late, they went to Don Santiago del Bal, 
and told him what they had intended, and their reason 
for giving it up. 

I felt very sorry that they did not come ; for, whatever 
the music might have been, the good will shown would 
have been gratifying. 

When we were leaving Panama, you would really have 
thought I was a member of the family of Mrs. Sosa. 
Every one gave me some token of remembrance; even 
Damiena, the servant who was a slave, and since the 
emancipation still lives with them, and is a treasure to 
them, brought me a novena to blessed Peter Claver,* 
and a flower which she had kept in her prayer-book four 
years, and hoped "I would remember my servant in 



* Blessed Peter Claver was a very holy man, who was devoted to the 
instruction and salvation of the souls of the poor slaves. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 121 

Panama." They all helped me to pack, and even Martin 
said, " I feel as if a sister were leaving home." 

We left at four in the afternoon, and were escorted to 
the boat by Mrs. Sosa, Julian Martin, Mica Nina, and 
Benilda, little Pedro Margarita Lopez, Mrs. Eccheverrier, 
Mr. Manuel Sosa, and his daughter Maraquita. They 
stood on the wharf waving their adieus as long as we 
were in sight. I miss their pleasant society much. The 
young ladies of the family when I left could already speak 
a little English. 

September 22d. — I have just heard, my darling parents, 
that a gentleman is sending an express to Panama, and 
will take my letter. 

I suppose that dear Nell will take the veil day after to- 
morrow.* I cannot tell you how lonely I am without 
Nell. I had always pictured her here with me. But 
Santiago is so changed, and so sad a place now, perhaps 
it is just as well as it is.f 

Mosquera has declared war against Ecuador ; and has 
called upon the Isthmus for twenty-five thousand dollars. 
The people are already taxed most heavily and feel this 
much. The population of the Isthmus is about one 
hundred and fifty thousand. 

I have received no letters since those of the 13th of 
August j those of the third were lost. I must stop writ- 

* It will be remembered, Jenny's sister left her home the 23d of June 
(the day that Jenny, too, parted from that dear circle), to enter the con- 
vent, and three months is usually allowed before taking the white veil, 
which is entering on probation only. 

t Poor Jenny! 



122 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

ing. I wish I could throw my arms around your neck, 
dearest father and mother, and give you such a kiss as 
would do my heart good. I feel very far away from you ; 
but still time passes, and when I am able to make a 
visit to you, I will be so happy, please God, it will repay 
me for my homesickness now. # Fond love to each one 
of my beloved ones at home in our family, to my dear 
ones in Binghamton, Detroit, Montreal, Washington, and 
Manhattanville. Do not forget to remember for me the 
good servants, and all those old servants who have lived 
with us, for I know they will all come to inquire for me. 

I hope you all pray for me, for we are deprived of 
every Christian consolation. Inez Arosemena has a 
nice little baby (a boy), and cannot have him baptized. 

Again and again, a fond good-by, my darling parents. 
From your devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Letter to Jenny's sister, Nettie E. White — State of the Town after the Revolu- 
tion — Still Homesick. 



Santiago, September iZth, 1863. 
My darling "Old Nett, — I have written a long 
letter of twenty-four pages, my dear sister, to my darling 
parents, and only add a few lines to you now 

* Alas! this wish, this dream of our hearts was not granted! God's holy 
will be done! 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 123 

There is a general gloom over the whole city ever since 
the revolution of last year ; but this state of things can- 
not last, please God. The worst consequences of the 
revolution have been the demoralization of the people, 
who were before an honest, industrious race. The sack- 
ing of the town was most complete. The houses were 
stripped of everything, in some cases of articles of every 
kind, large and small. The furniture Bernardino bought 
for our room, and his books, were left, although they broke 
open the bureau to find money and jewelry. 

I am more homesick than you can imagine, darling 
Nett, for you all and for my dear, dear home. Sometimes 
it seems as if I cannot bear it. Still, I try to content my- 
self, and I seem cheerful ; yet, I have often to blame 
myself for yielding to loneliness, when every one makes 
such exertion to make me happy. It would be impos- 
sible to tell you how good and kind they are to me. Still 
it is not home. I doubt not, after a while, I will be con- 
tented. I will feel happier after I have received your 
letters here. Poor Bernardino is greatly distressed when 
I give way to homesickness, although he says he knows 
how natural it is, and that he feels almost as lonely part- 
ing with you all. 

We are still with Julianna, who had my room pleas- 
antly and cheerfully arranged for us The 

photographs of my family and friends, which dear Sarah 
Brownson arranged for me, are studied with great 
interest 

I hope in God darling mother is well again ; but I will 



124 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

feel most anxious till I hear. I am very uneasy about 
Frank and darling Rho. 

Now, Netty, you must keep me informed of your say- 
ings and doings this winter, — your first in society. I 
anticipate for you " grand times," and trust that nothing 
will occur to disappoint you. 

How is the music, Nett ? I shall miss it much this 
winter. 

Remember me to every one you know I love, as if 
named ; but to each one of the dear family give the 
fondest, fondest love of your devoted sister, 

Jenny C. White del Eal. 




Her Sister Ellen takes the Veil — Study to perfect herself in Spanish — 
Dreaming of Home. 

Santiago, September 24A&, 1863. 

My beloved Sister — my darling Nell, — Dear 
Rho wrote to me that you expected, please God, to re- 
ceive the veil to-day. All day my thoughts have been 
with you, and my prayers have been offered up for a 
blessing on the offering you make our Lord this day, 
praying that you may be happy in the life you have 
chosen, dear Nell. 

I have been sad and lonely thinking of you ; for, though 
my will tries to be resigned, nature still asserts her claims, 
and the struggle is far from being over. I have also 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 125 

thought and felt much of the sacrifice my beloved parents 
this day make. "Well, time at best is but short, and I 
pray that when eternity dawns upon us, our sacrifices may 
have been so made here as then to bring their reward.* 

I could not have the happiness of going to holy com- 
munion for you, dearest Nell, nor the pleasure of hear- 
ing mass, as you know our churches are closed ; but 
Julianna, Fermina (her widowed sister), and myself said 
a rosary for you, and you and the family were the frequent 
subjects of our conversation. 

All the night before, I was in my dreams with my dear 
family and many friends, and was so happy I could not 
bear to awaken. 

You are constantly spoken of here, and all regret you 
did not come with me. They appreciate your remem- 
brances to them. Mica values the scapularies. Even the 
little pet niece, Pancheta Garcia, knows the photographs 
of you all, and points, out "La Senora Mack." Mica 
had told them all the details of my wedding, and given a 
minute description of the bridesmaids 

I am most anxious to hear from you, now that you have 
entered on your new career. I have only heard once 
from you. One letter of yours was lost in the riot, they 
said. Do write : letters are my great consolation here. 

I thank God that I am becoming more cheerful. If 
that first homesickness had lasted, I think I would have 
died or lost my mind. I try to keep myself constantly 
occupied, and thus avoid painful subjects. I am teaching 



* God grant it ! Hers were many, and made with a cheerful spirit. 
12 



126 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Julianna English. Her energy and perseverance surprise 
me. Yet the teacher's task is no light one. But it gives 
me an occupation, and at the same time an opportunity to 
confer a favor upon one who is unwearied in her desire 
and exertions to please me. The people here have a 
great appreciation of the advantages of education. 

I am practising my Spanish, — writing Spanish letters, 
translating English into Spanish. I am desirous to per- 
fect myself in the language 

Good-by, dear "Old Nell." I depend upon all you good 
nuns to pray for me. I have translated poor Madam 
Duffy's prayers, and my favorite novena to the Sacred 
Heart ; and these we try to recite daily for the religious, — 
I mean those in our family especially. Do pray we may 
not die here, if it is God's will to spare us. Give a great 
deal of love to dear Kate, and to Madam Hardy. And 
now, my darling sister, I must send off this scrawl. 
Your devoted and affectionate sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



We have now fairly introduced Jenny to our readers in 
her new and far-distant home, after a long and perilous 
journey ; and we trust that her letters have revealed to 
them the leading characteristics of her heart and mind. 
We have given these letters just as they were written foi 
her family alone, with all their minute detail, because it 
seemed necessary to complete the picture to give her the 
light and shade, a single line of which, disturbed or 






JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 127 

varied, would destroy its truthfulness. Her homesick- 
ness, which she wrote to her sister was so great that had 
it lasted in its first great strength would have caused her 
death, can only be understood by those who know what 
an atmosphere of love had ever surrounded Jenny in her 
home, and with what remarkable devotedness her large 
circle of friends had cherished her, even from her infancy. 
Evidently chosen by God for a remarkable mission, as 
will be seen, he had gifted her with all the graces nec- 
essary to fulfil it, and the greatest of these was the gift 
of winning and drawning all hearts, rich and poor, to her 
own. Wherever Jenny went, even from childhood to her 
marriage, she found sincere and earnest friends, who ac- 
knowledged without envy or jealousy her goodness and 
superiority. Her accomplishments often won her count- 
less praises ; but she received them with the sweetest 
humility. One so, petted and cherished could not break 
away from ties, so tenderly bound around her heart, with- 
out a severe struggle. Even though following one whom 
she loved more than all the world beside, how severe 
was that struggle, she says herself, " could not be told." 
God knew it, and he only ; and this was the great sacri- 
fice he first asked of her, to test her faith and trust in 
him, before he gave her the saintly work it was his will 
to call her to Santiago to do for his suffering people 
there. Were it not that with an eye of faith her family 
saw the good that Jenny could' and would do in that 
afflicted country, they could never have borne the separa- 
tion as they did. 

We have seen how she has hidden her sorrow to meet 






128 JENNY C. WRITE BEL BAL. 

duty, with the courage of a " valiant woman," and how 
she has faced death, while clinging to the side of that 
frail vessel, and thinking a moment more would engulf 
their little bark ; and though she was calm and strong, 
home, sweet home arose before her, and her cause of 
anguish was " my poor dear ones at home ; it will break 
their hearts." 

We must not anticipate, or we should fear that so sen- 
sitive a nature would at least yield and sink under the 
cross before the end could be attained. So it would be 
in many cases ; but Jenny had, side by side with this love 
of home, this great love, a stronger, a more powerful grace, 
— it was resignation to the will of God. And this gift is 
remembered from her infancy to have sustained her 
under all her trials, great and small, up to this last great 
test of her love of duty, and of her husband. 

But now she has fallen into kind hands and loving hearts, 
who have cherished and will cherish her with tender care, 
and already the " Nina Jenny " is no longer " the stran- 
ger " who all feared would not like this miserable coun- 
try, after leaving such a home - and city as New York. 
No, she is their Nina Jenny, and we will leave her now 
to go on with her own story of her new life and new 
home, trusting that it may prove one not only of interest, 
but of profit, and one which must alike exalt in our 
minds " the little stranger," and the people among whom 
she had come to call " her people," and " their God her 
God." 

The wedding anniversary of Jenny's father and mother, 
29th of September, was a day kept in the family as a 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 129 

festival most dear to the whole household, one in which 
parents, children, and servants united their efforts to 
make the day one of jubilee for all. 

Weeks previous to it the children were saving their 
pocket-money to make purchases ; for each presented on 
that morning a token of their love and veneration to both 
father and mother. The selection was a matter of as 
much discussion as a debate in Congress, and far more 
delightful ; and a few dollars had, in imagination, gone 
from store to store, until it had purchased the worth of 
as many thousands, before it was decided what the choice 
should be. 

Jenny and the older children prepared a play or con- 
cert for the evening, and they were learned, by long and 
careful study, with as much delight and earnestness as if 
a crowd would criticise their efforts, while they knew that 
their parents would be the sole audience. Their appro- 
bation and the gratification of paying them homage were 
to them abundant reward. Until they were grown, this 
rule of no invitations for " home parties " (as these were 
called) was observed, for the purpose of teaching the 
children to pay as much respect to one another as to the 
world. It was this education of the heart which bound 
the members of the family so closely together, and ren- 
dered their love for one another so pure, that among 
them there was but one heart; it rejoiced or suffered 
for each and all. 
12* 



130 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



Wedding Anniversary of her Parents — Visits from Country People — Atten- 
tion of her new Friends — Flowers sent daily to her. 

Santiago, September 29th, 1863. 

My beloved Parents, — All day, in thought, I have 
been with you, my heart rilled with memories of anniver- 
saries of this happy day ; and my thoughts have been 
busy with imaginings of what you were doing at home to 
celebrate the festival. 

I hope that darling Rho has been so well and strong 
that it has been a day of general rejoicing ; and though 
we have not been with you to offer in person our con- 
gratulations to you, my darling parents, be assured your 
absent children here offered many a heartfelt prayer and 
aspiration for the blessed continuance of your lives and 
happiness. 

We could not go to mass. Our churches are not yet 
open for mass ; but in the morning Bernardino and I, and 
in the afternoon Julianna, Fermina, and I said prayers for 
you. At dinner, we honored the day ; your health was 
drank with enthusiasm. Nearly all day I have talked of 
you, my darling parents. I have given them a true but 
glowing description of the happiness, love, and unity of 
your wedded life. May God grant you may be long 
spared to one another and your children ! 

October 3d. — I always keep a letter begun or partly 
written, to be ready to send it when an opportunity 
occurs. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 131 

Since Santiago was guilty of the sin of loyalt)', it is no 
longer the capital of the country ; therefore the mails are 
sent from, and received at, San Francisco, the present 
court-town, and our letters subjected to delays, and more 
frequently lost. 

It is three months to-day since I arrived in Panama, — 
quarter of a year ! In a year and three quarters I hope 
to go home again.* Do not be unhappy about me. I 
am sure I will become more contented when we can have 
the privilege of practising our religion. Without that, I 
could not be happy anywhere. 

Julianna tells me, but for the rule against it, there was 
to have been high mass, procession of the blessed sacra- 
ment, and various prayers chanted, in thanksgiving for 
our safe arrival. 

Every one has the greatest compassion for me, being, 
as they say, " an exile from home." I have beautiful 
flowers sent to me every day by one member of the family 
or another, or from a friend. I scarcely dare say I feel 
an ache or pain ; for if I have but a bad headache, all the 
members of the family, far and near, come or send a mes- 
senger to inquire if 1 1 am better, or to express their 
sorrow.f ...... 

All the country people for miles around have come to 
visit us, and our time has been constantly occupied re- 
turning calls. 



* Poor child ! Her prayer was not granted. 

f Such attention to the "little stranger" shows great refinement and 
kind-heartedness. 



132 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

October $th. — My heart was overjoyed by the sight of 
letters from home to-day. Dear Nett's long letter, — 
one dictated by dearest mother in her sick-bed, two 
from dearest father, two from dear Nell, one from " Old 
Loo," one from dear Tom, and one from darling Rho. 
I could not say how thoroughly I enjoyed these dear 
letters. I read and re-read them ; and although they 
brought me the sad news of dear mother's and Frank's 
and Rho's illness, yet they gave me the cheering intelli- 
gence of their recovery, or at least convalescence. 

I am still uneasy about Rho. How I sympathized with 
her ! Nett, mother's little nurse during her illness, will 
have her birthday day after to-morrow, when I shall 
think of her. May God bless her ! 

Bernardino and each member of the family send re- 
membrances and love. Don Santiago gave me a long 
Spanish message to you, dear father, which want of time 
will prevent me from writing (for the messenger is wait- 
ing for my letter). 

Give my love "to all inquiring friends," which means 
something from me ; for no one will inquire for me whom 
I do not really remember and love. You know, dear 
parents, I always felt I had a great many friends, and I 
think of them now more than ever. Especially remem- 
ber me to my dear, kind, good friend, Father Driscoll, 
and all the good priests at Sixteenth Street. 
Ever your devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 133 



Interesting description of a Bull-fight 

Santiago, October *jth y 1863. 

My darling "Old Nett," — A thousand good wishes 
and blessings are in my heart and on my lips, darling, for 
you ; but distance, which but adds intensity to my feelings 
of affection for you, prevents my expressing them in any 
more satisfactory manner than through the medium of a 
letter. 

And this, darling Nett, is your birthday ! Fairly em- 
barked on your voyage of life, your heart rilled I know 
with many bright anticipations, the sea so calm, and 
the sun so bright, and wind so fair, you cannot bring 
yourself to believe that clouds or storms can ever come. 
And do not think of them, dear Nett ; for if they come, 
you will not find them so hard to struggle through as 
your imagination would now lead you to believe, and if, 
as I pray it may be, it is the will of God you should be 
protected and spared from them, you will have clouded, 
by anticipation of evil, a time in your life which, if not 
the happiest, is the most light-hearted. 

I fancy you and dear Lilla will have a gay winter. Is 
Jenny Eldridge to spend the winter with you ? I hope so. 
Be sure to keep me informed of your enjoyments. 

Manuela, Fermina, Julianna, and all the family send 
their congratulations to you on your entrance into society, 
and many good wishes for your birthday. We all said 



134 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

prayers together for you this morning. Please tell dear 
father we have prayers for him every day 

You seemed quite horrified at the idea of a bull-fight, 
and would excuse any of your admirers for expressing 
their devotion to you in this way, I presume. It is indeed 
a barbarous amusement. The Spaniards themselves con- 
fess it to be so ; but in this country it would be difficult to 
abolish it, the people are so infatuated with it. 

I believe I did not describe the manner in which this 
"playing with the bull," as it is called in Spanish, is 
carried on. 

One of the bull-fights I saw was given in celebration 
of the anniversary of the inauguration of the present 
administration, and was therefore conducted with a great 
deal of style. Generally the principal plaza is fenced in. 
In this instance the bull was fought in the open square, 
being secured by a rope forty or fifty yards long, which 
was held by several men, — thus allowing the bull free 
play, while it prevented his escape. 

There were two " toreadors," two black men, one cele- 
brated as the best " toreador " in Panama. He wore a 
light-blue flannel shirt and black pantaloons, and, as he 
stood shaking the bright red " manta " in the face of the 
bull, to enrage him still more, he looked like the man in 
the picture, of a bull-fight I saw, in Goupil's window. 

The point at which the excitement is greatest is when 
the triumphant toreador fastens the " bandarilla " in the 
neck of his furious antagonist. The " bandarilla " is 
something in appearance like a rocket about four feet 
long, gayly ornamented with ribbons, one end pointed 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 135 

with sharpened iron. To strike this firmly in the bull re- 
quires great coolness and dexterity on the part of the 
toreador, as he must advance within a few feet of the ter- 
rible animal before the dangerous feat can be attempted. 

Before trying, he takes up a collection among the crowd, 
first presenting the " bandarilla " to the person whom he 
wishes to compliment, the honor to be paid for by a larger 
donation than that given by the others. The day I saw 
it, the gentleman gave ten dollars. As the " bandarilla " 
is struck, a spring is touched which causes a discharge 
of fireworks around the head of the bull. You may im- 
agine the effect ! The animal plunges, rears, and rushes 
wildly around. The toreadors skilfully avoid him ; men 
and boys shout and applaud, women shriek and scream ; 
— and this is what I saw at a bull-fight ! Sometimes 
lives are lost ; but I saw no accident, thank God ! I 
never wish to see another. As a matter of curiosity, I 
felt anxious to witness what the world-renowned and time- 
renowned amusement was. Do not be shocked at my 
minute account. I only give it as information, which, if 
I failed to give, I would pass unnoticed one of the na- 
tional amusements and customs of a country which I try 
to describe faithfully to you. 

Bernardino sends congratulations, and regrets he can- 
not be in New York to celebrate your birthday. He 
says he will never forget the songs with which you used 
to amuse him. 

I was at sea, on my way from Panama, on my dear 
Tom's birthday; but he was not forgotten. 

Give a great deal of love to all my friends. Congrat- 



136 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

ulate dear Josephine Bosworth for me. How is Mrs. 

Bosworth ? better, I hope (Then follow 

messages to many.) .... Remember me to Ann 
Curtayne. One would think "I had taken my pen in 
hand " from " the ould counthry," by all my messages ; 
but I do remember all ; and now let me remember my 
humbler, though not less esteemed, friends, — the good 
servants, so kind to me always, and McDermott, my old 
nurse, and all the old women at the Church, who used 
to pray for me. 

Your loving sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Dangerous and remarkable Illness — Great Attention from the whole Town, 
Rich and Poor — Recovery. 

Santiago, November 13th, 1863. 

My own darling Mother, — Words cannot tell you 
the happiness your dear handwriting gave me, weak and 
feeble as it was, after your sickness ; yet day by day I 
could see an improvement, and I rejoiced in the last 
letter, looking like your own dear handwriting once 
more. My heart ached for you, dear mother, in your 
many and varied trials ; but, as dear Father O'Reilly once 
said to me, " Those who are assisting Jesus to carry the 
cross must walk very near him." 






JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 137 

One of my greatest trials is, that I seem to be deprived 
of the power of aiding you in any way. I am fated to be 
so far from you, that even in sickness I cannot help you. 
It is one of the greatest trials to me, for it would be of 
inexpressible happiness to me to be of use to you, my 
darling parents ; all I can do is to pray for you, and my 
poor prayers you have. To others is left the pleasure of 
acts 

How I would like to be with you all this winter, always 
meaning if my dear husband could be there too ! I re- 
joiced at John and Rho's happiness, — the birth of their 

little Rhoda And how is poor Frank ? That 

fever was terrible 

When you wrote your letters to me, dear mother, neither 
you nor I anticipated I would be in the same state of 
convalescence when I answered them. I am just recover- 
ing from a severe and tedious illness of five weeks, which, 
notwithstanding the reputation of the Isthmus, was not a 
fever ! This must account for the trembling hand and 
style of my letter. Yesterday, when Bernardino returned 
from the hacienda in the country, where he went in the 
morning, he found me up, dressed in my rose-colored 
morning-dress, hair dressed, and looking so well he de- 
clared no one would believe I had been sick. Even the 
doctor is amazed at my recuperative powers. 

I was taken ill in the night, feeling my blood very much 
heated, and suffered from such a dreadful itching I could 
not sleep. In the morning I was very weak, and parts 
of my person were covered with what seemed to be hives. 
I felt a disinclination to exert myself, but forced myself 

13 



138 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 

to take my morning walk. On my return I was seized 
with such a sick faintness that I could scarcely be un- 
dressed ; my blood was boiling. Large blotches came 
out upon me from my head to my feet, accompanied with 
such intense itching that I was almost crazy. Cooling 
drinks, and herbs with which I was rubbed, relieved me for 
a time ; then this itching came on in paroxysms, which 
continued all the next day and night ; these were followed 
by violent pains, and I said to Bernardino that I felt as if 
I had been poisoned ; but the doctor thought it the effect 
of the climate, although he had never seen such a case 
here. # He called it poisoning of the blood. By the time 
he arrived, my forehead and eyes, — indeed, every part of 
my body, — toes, fingers, ears, and eyes, — were swollen 
so that no one could have recognized me. He ordered 
potash and cooling external application (glycerine), and 
a foot-bath • this latter I could only bear eight minutes, 
and then almost fainted away. He ordered sixteen 
leeches on my face, and kept me on low diet. He came 
several times a day, and the fourth day I was a little bet- 
ter. Several times I was threatened with a nervous 
spasm, from the agony of the itching in the soles of my 
feet and palms of my hands. Mrs. Fabrega told me she 
had seen cases like it in Bogota, and that in some instan- 
ces it gave spasms and lockjaw. 

On Friday morning I awoke from my first night's rest, 
when, most unexpectedly, all your letters came to delight 
me. But I did not receive the opinion dear father prom- 

*We are inclined to believe it was caused by the exposure of the 
journey. 






JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 139 

ised to send me. On trying to sit up that morning, I 
found myself very ill again. I cannot tell you my suffer- 
ing. The doctor stayed all that night, and was much 
alarmed. 

Petita, Manuela, Julianna, and Fermina were taking 
care of me, and the anxiety with which the doctor watched 
my pulse every few minutes showed me I was danger- 
ously ill. My illness had assumed a new form, and one 
that endangered my life, and would certainly destroy that 
of another. There was but one way to save my life, — 
an operation. I explained to the doctor that, as a Catho- 
lic, I could not, without a violation of conscience, allow 
my life to be spared by the operation, unless my death 
was certain without it ; for in that case both mother and 
child would be lost in this early stage. Had it been late 
enough to save the child, no arguments could have made 
me risk its death. 

Oh, dear mother, you cannot think what an agony it 
was for me to decide to purchase my life by the loss of a 
soul ! * 

Sixty hours I lay without moving. 

Bernardino sat up with me twelve nights in succession ! 
I could not induce him to go to bed, no matter who 
beside him stayed with me. I cannot tell you what good, 
kind care they took of me. Mr. Miro, Julianna's hus- 
band, has been sick, confined to his room, and yet she 



* The recklessness with -which in these days so many violate conscience 
for vain and trifling reasons, has induced me not to withhold Jenny's 
Christian views on this subject. 



140 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

has been so much with me, I had to force her to leave. 
Petita was constant in her attendance, and Fermina also. 

The whole town, rich and poor, came to inquire for 
me, and even those who were not related to Bernar- 
dino were praying for me earnestly. You cannot imag- 
ine how kind every one has been to me. Still, darling 
mother, you, who have just enjoyed the loving care of 
your dear mother, know that no other care or kindness can 
make up for the want of that. I would tell a story, and 
one that you would not believe, if I said I was not home- 
sick. I am at times almost overpowered. 

I could not but remember the tender care of my dear 
parents, and brothers, and sisters, in my sickness and 
affliction at home, when I saw myself, with the exception 
of my dear husband, surrounded by persons whom two 
months before I had never seen, — not even speaking my 
language. 

It seemed ungrateful for me to give way to homesick- 
ness, when they were so kind, and I tried to control my 
feelings ; but even in this they were kind, for when they 
found traces of tears they did their best to console me. 
Indeed, they do make a great pet of me. Don Santiago 
and I are good friends. He was much troubled at my 
illness, and came twice a day to see me, and postponed a 
journey to the country two weeks, that he might leave me 
well. 

The doctor (Dr. Dickson) seems to be an excellent 
one, and in both cases treated me most skilfully. He is 
an American, has lived twelve years in these countries, 
and has had much experience. He was educated in St. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 141 

Francis Xavier's College, Cincinnati, and pursued his 
medical studies in Philadelphia. He is a man about 
Dr. Whiting's size and style, very well educated, and 
very gentlemanly. He married a Spanish lady here ; 
they live in perfect harmony, and are one of the most de- 
voted couples I have seen. Mrs. Dickson is very pretty, 
and, though young, seems a woman of great force of 
character and energy, lively and agreeable in conversa- 
tion, and very warm-hearted and affectionate. Her hus- 
band took her to Peru last year ; but she was so homesick 
be was obliged to bring her back.* She can sympathize 
with me. 

November 26th. — Thanksgiving Day! I was in the 
act of writing when I was taken with a relapse, my dear 
parents. I believe I got a little too homesick over my 
letter, which produced a relapse, after which I had a kind 
of fever, which lasted five days. Now I am up again, for 
the first time, and feel better than I have done in a long 
time. I would not send my letter till I could say I was 
well, for fear of frightening you. 

I had all my plans for keeping Thanksgiving Day ! 
Even here I was going to have pumpkin pies ; and we 
were to have our American flag out ! But it is post- 
poned ; so I thought I would just drop in while you are 
all at dinner, and I have kept Thanksgiving with you all, 
dear ones. I hope you have a right merry time of it at 

* Dr. Dickson has since told me that she tried to conceal her homesick- 
ness; hut when he saw it was affecting her health, he abandoned the idea 
of living in Lima, and when he told her so, she fell upon her knees and 
thanked him. 

13* 



142 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

that dear old dinner-table, and have as many private as 
public reasons for thanks. 

I rejoiced over the Ohio and Pennsylvania elections. 
We have had no letters since the 23d of September, and are 
most anxious to hear of the Washington expedition. I 
dare not write more, but feel that I must be with you a 
few minutes. 

December 2d. — I had the happiness of receiving a 
budget of letters, Saturday last, which I assure you I 
enjoyed. They came when I had that last fever, and the 
doctor and Bernardino kept them from me. They were 
from you, dear mother, — two from Nett, one from Rho at 
West Point, and one from grandfather. 

I am quite well now, thank God ! have a good appetite, 
and the doctor thinks I will be again very healthy. I 
got well in time to assist in the care of poor Bernardino, 
who has had a severe bilious attack, but is better. 

We are crazy to hear the result of the elections. Our 
last papers came two days before election. I cannot tell 
you what a comfort your letters are. You do not speak 
of my letter from Nata, in which I described our wonder- 
ful escape from shipwreck on the way from Panama. 

Since there is but twenty-five minutes' difference in 
time between here and New York, I frequently, during 
the day, imagine what you are all doing. . . . 

I wished to write you a pleasant letter about Santiago, 
but dare not write long letters. I am too weak to trust 
myself too far yet, for I take too deep an interest in all 
your affairs, dearest parents. We have prayers every 
day in the family for you. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 143 

Poor Uncle Frank's death shocked and pained me. 
How I feel for poor Grandmother Waterman ! Do not 
fancy me pale-looking. Manuela said, to-day, " Look at 
Jenny ; who would think she had been sick ? " Do ob- 
tain all the prayers you can for us. What a sad Christ- 
mas we will have, — not even one mass ! 

Bernardino joins me in wishing all our dear family, in 
different parts of the United States, a happy Christmas 
and a merry New- Year. I trust Frank will be home, 
and that will make the house cheerful. I dare not write 
more. I hope my next will not be full of myself and my 
troubles. Your own devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Panama, December 6th, 1863. 

My darling Loo, — I have been seven weeks sick, or 
you would have had your birthday letter. I am well now, 
thank God ! 

I have built a great many castles in the air about your 
coming to live with me here. Twelve years old ! We 
would have a nice time together, Loo, riding, studying, 
practising music, and speaking Spanish. Then we would 
go to the hacienda, and swing in the hammocks in orange 
groves, and read ! Now, although I could not teach you 
as well as mamma, yet your time would not be lost. 



144 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Dr. Dickson considers this a very healthy place, and 
for persons threatened with affections of the lungs most 
especially so. There are eight months of winter, which 
is the rainy season, commencing in April and ending in 
November ; four months of summer, from the first of 
December to the first of April. Since I came, the ther- 
mometer has ranged from seventy to eighty degrees. 

Now, " Old Loo," do you not think we could enjoy two 
years very pleasantly here? We would have so much 
time for study 

I have not, as anticipated, grown lazy here : whether I 
will, remains 'to be seen. I doubt it ; for an idle life would 
be to me a truly penitential one. I have always been 
accustomed, from dear mother's teaching, to be so system- 
atic, that, almost unconsciously, wherever I am I settle 
down into a regular mode of life, occupying every hour as 
usefully as I can. My sickness broke into the following 
arrangement of my time, which, thank God, I am able to 
resume to day, with the exception of the walks. 

I rise at six. After taking a cup of tea or coffee, 
Bernardino, Julianna, and I walk about an hour, it 
generally terminating in a call on Don Santiago del Bal. 
On my return, after changing my dress, and saying my 
morning prayers, I write until eleven, a. m., only inter- 
rupted by breakfast, which is here always a very sociable 
meal; from eleven until twelve I practise my guitar; 
from twelve till two, I give an English lesson to Julianna, 
sewing meanwhile ; from two to three I read and write 
Spanish and French on alternate days ; dress for dinner, 
and, at half-past three, " prayers for you all and for my 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 145 

dear father ; " and that takes some time. We dine between 
four and five, and after dinner sit out on the porch or 
"portal," take our tea or "cafe noir," and chat and 
amuse ourselves till nine or ten o'clock, when we say the 
rosary and retire. I have been reading Scott's novels at 
odd moments. Sometimes this routine is interrupted by 
visitors and visits ; but they are usually paid in the even- 
ing. 

Scarcely an evening passes without visitors ; but since 
the assassination of Mr. Luis Fabrega, in the plaza, be- 
tween nine and ten, and threat to shoot every one of the 
name, few care to be out late. The late revolution has 
thrown such a gloom over the town that, unless especially 
invited, few care to remain out later than nine. The 
evening does not seem so short, for it is always dark 
at half-past six ; indeed, most people drop in at half-past 
five while we are taking our " cafe." 

A messenger just came, offering to take my letter, dear 
Loo, and I must leave you to give all my loving messages 
to each one of the dear ones. 

From your devoted sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Small-pox on the Isthmus — Desolation of Soul described — Troops called out for 
Ecuador — Country people fly to the Caves and Mountains. 

December 16th, 1863. 
My dearest Father, — I am now, thank God, well, 
and, like dear mother, hope my illness will benefit me. I 



146 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

have not yet walked out, for Bernardino is too careful 
of me 

The small-pox is within a few miles of Santiago ; it 
has worked its way up from Panama. I dared not tell 
you that when we were in Panama it was all around 
us, and one case in the house with us. It continues 
as a pestilence there. The native population is ten or 
twelve thousand, and several thousand foreign residents. 
One thousand cases, they say, of small-pox have proved 
fatal ; and these poor people dying without priests near 
them ! 

Certainly this country is under the scourge of the 
Almighty. War and pestilence have come ; there is but 
famine left, — from which may God preserve us. 

This new call for men for Ecuador has so alarmed the 
country people that already they are afraid of being seized 
as soldiers. Upon the very first report of a recruiting 
officer in this neighborhood, they will fly to the caves and 
mountains, neglect their plantations, and not one will 
dare appear to sell their produce in town. 

I thank you, dear father, for all your prayers and com- 
munions for us, and hope you will continue them ; for 
indeed we need them temporally and spiritually. It is a 
sad time for us. When the whole Christian world will be 
celebrating this holy season with festivities and rejoicings, 
we will not be able to hear one mass on Christmas day. 
It seems as if we may exclaim, "Father, why hast thou 
forsaken us ? " Still, I try to recover my fainting spirit, 
recalling the many promises our blessed Lord has made 
that we shall not call upon him in vain. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 147 

I trust, through the many good prayers offered, he will 
ere long be in our midst, in his loving sacramental pres- 
ence. My head is warning me not to trespass too far 

upon my new-found strength 

My own darling father's devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Going to House-keeping— Plans to arouse the People. 

[private.] 

Panama, December i%th, 1863. 

My dearest Mother, — I have just written to dear 

father Please send me my piano, for which 

I send a check Money is so scarce here 

now, on account of the state of the country and the heavy 
taxes, that we are glad to live, and hope for better days. 
Those who are obliged to sell must do it at a great sac- 
rifice. Cattle, that sold for twenty, thirty, and thirty-five 
dollars a head, now sell at ten. The governor sold one 
hundred, belonging to a gentleman, the other day, at five 
dollars, that were worth forty ! We do not wish to sell 
now, and prefer being economical. 

Is not my fate a strange one ? Just going to house- 
keeping, without being ready for it, at such a time as 
this! You know how much it requires. Bernardino 



148 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

bears his troubles like a saint. I tell him we are young, 
and hope to live to see better days in the land. 

I send you, dear mother, a list of articles for house- 
keeping, which I will ask you to select for me. . . . 
Our house was ready for us, but in the revolution, as I 
wrote to you, this city was sacked, and the houses worth 
entering were robbed of everything. We have an odd 
beginning, until you can send us these things, which 
affords us no little amusement. Imagine us going to 
house-keeping with the following articles : A beautiful 
bedstead, bureau, and washstand; a handsome easy- 
chair and rocking-chair ; a piano, guitar ; several hundred 
well-selected volumes in English, French, and Spanish; 
silver napkin-rings, fruit-spoons, etc., and any number of 
knick-knacks ; a high-post bedstead, the curtains of which 
are in the hands of the revolutionists. Nothing useful 
in the lot. 

Bernardino and I have to laugh over the shifts we will 
have to make, with our little stock, to keep up appear- 
ances. I tell him I mean to electrify the people, when I 
once go to house-keeping, and arouse them out of their 
depressed state by my entertainments, " a PAmericaine." 
I will so enchant them, they will not notice the deficien- 
cies ! We try to laugh at trouble, and "like it." I do 
not like to bring much from the States while communi- 
cation is so difficult. Our bedstead alone cost us two 
hundred dollars to get it here, besides an infinite deal 
of trouble 

I am giving you a great deal of trouble, dearest mother. 
It is what I have done all my life, and you are not rid of 



JENNY C, WHITE DEL BAL. 149 

me yet, you see ! . . . Would you believe it, even 
here I am often in a hurry ! I write in haste. " Becky 
Trot," as Rho called me, I fear I will be all my life. 
My darling mother's ever devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Reflections New Year's Eve — First Christmas in Santiago — Introduction of 
the Society of the Sacred Heart in Santiago — Mails — Archbishop's Circular. 

Panama, December 31^, 1863. 

My dearest Mother, — This is the last night of the 
year, and what a year it has been to me ! I have known 
the joy of a mother's love, and have felt the anguish of a 
mother's grief in parting with the child dear to her. I 
have parted with all of my family and friends, and have 
come to a foreign land, — that land in a state of political 
excitement and religious desolation such as you can 
hardly imagine. I have seen my husband ill to death's 
door ; and never shall I forget that hour when we both 
stood praying together in that boat, each moment expect- 
ing to be launched into eternity ! Many blessings, too, 
have I had. But I must not continue these reflections. 
One of my trials this year, and by no means the lightest, 
has been darling Nell's leaving 

Your dear letters came to me two days before Christ- 
mas, and were a great comfort to me. I was not 
very well, and could hardly hold my head up on Christ- 
mas. They heard me speak of the custom at home of 
14 



150 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

trimming the house with greens, and Mr. Miro sent a boy 
for some greens and palm-trees. Julianna and Fermina 
brought the greens to my bed, and we made a cross and 
they trimmed the room to look like Christmas at home. In 
the evening they all came to my room and I prepared for 
the drawing of Christmas gifts.* I drew " The Cross," 
Mr. Miro drew " Trust in Providence," which was very 
applicable to his situation. To-morrow, please God, 
we are to have singing, to begin the New Year in good 
spirits. 

It seems as if sickness would never leave when it comes 
to a family. Poor Petita has been sick six weeks ; one 
of the servants at death's door. I am now quite well 
again, and the doctor says he never saw any one look so 
well after illness. 

I hope you do not feel sad at the thought of my home- 
sickness, and fancy me going about gloomily. I try to be 
cheerful and conceal my feelings, for I have a husband 
devoted to me and his whole family, and many friends 
love and, I think, respect me. I can say this to you, dear 
mother, because you understand me, and know I say it to 
make you happier. 

No one can appreciate the blessings of a good govern- 
ment until they are deprived of it. Mr. Miro has been 
urging me to write to father and Mr. Greeley about the 
political state of this country, — he is so provoked at the 
coloring that is given to Mosquero's acts by the minister 
and correspondents. I have promised to do so as soon as 

* These are graces written on pieces of paper, and with a prayer drawn 
for the year's practice. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 151 

my head feels strong enough. The Mortmain law is per- 
fectly iniquitous 

The last mass I heard was in dear Sixteenth Street. 
Pray ask them to remember me in their prayers. You 
cannot think how I felt when I was so sick, without a 
priest to give me the sacraments. It was very desolate. 

There are no mails now except between Panama and 
the county town of each department. The governor has 
stopped them. He said, " They only make the people talk 
about the affairs of the government, and give rise to 
rumors and reports." This is the liberal government! 

The archbishop has published a circular, declaring all 
Catholic priests who have taken the oath the government 
requires, as suspended, and incapacitated for saying mass 
or administering the sacraments 

There are some few priests who have remained in the 
country and have given bail, but have not sworn not to 
perform any religious duties. If any of them were detected 
in any act of their priestly office, they would be put in 
prison or exiled. Thus you see, dear mother, it would be 
no easy matter to get any one of them to run such a risk, 
no matter how much needed. There is no priest at this 
time in Santiago ; but there is a rumor that the former 
curate might return if we could go for him ; but it would 
be rather difficult to bring him secretly into a place like 
this to attend a sick person. It is perfectly dreadful to 
live in this way. 

I have been making an exertion to spread devotion to 
the Sacred Heart here. Pray for me. And now, dear 



152 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

mother, take my good-night kiss (a kiss I would so love 
to give myself to you ! ), and the love of your devoted 
child, , Jenny. 

P. S. — Do not forget to give my love to Dr. and Mrs. 
Whiting. How often I have thought of the doctor since 
I have been sick ! 



We have accompanied Jenny to her adopted home, and 
have travelled with her in her journeyings, as if side by 
side. We feel depressed, and almost lose courage. To 
follow on seems only to witness the gathering of heavier 
clouds ; and the darkened skies threaten gloom insup- 
portable. 

We have found her nearly overcome by heart-grief. 
Alas ! perhaps she has too dearly loved her home. We 
have seen her more than once near unto death, and by 
an invisible power snatched from it when all human aid 
was powerless. And now, at the close of the year, such 
is the state of the people and the country in that afflicted 
land, that even she, so brave, so hopeful, exclaims, " My 
God, why hast thou forsaken us ? " Yet her courage must 
be our support ; her faith, our faith ! Does she not say 
that better times will come, for " He has promised to 
hear those who put their trust in him " ? 

Already she has aroused her own energies, and declares 
she will "electrify " this depressed people, and allow them 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 153 

no longer to give way to silent sorrow. May we not hope 
that the angel of God has brought her here to be their 
consoler and guiding-star in this storm of persecution 
which has desolated the land? 

His will — to take her from parents who idolized her, 
and from every comfort that surrounded her — was not 
to wound her sensitive heart, and prostrate her upon a 
bed of sickness in the land of strangers, but to purify her 
yet more, and thus prepare her for an exalted work in 
this distant home. We bow in submission to the inscru- 
table ways of Providence, or our hearts would break. 

She closes the year, hoping our Christmas at home 
will be a happy one ! Who will fill her vacant place ? 
Who will prepare the Christmas concert? Who will 
lead the little band when they chant at dawn of day ? 
Since she was seven years old, every Christmas morning, 
before daylight, her voice has been heard at the door of 
her parents' room, awakening them by singing the hymn, 
" Come, let us adore Him." Last Christmas (1862) she, 
with six brothers and sisters, chanted the Christmas carol 
and a gloria at midnight. It was a heavenly choir of 
pure young hearts, offering homage to the infant Saviour ! 
And think you not that Jenny, on that sick-bed in San- 
tiago, heard again those sweet voices in spirit, and missed 
the parents' blessing ? * 

* Jenny, on Christmas eve, after every one had taken two hours' sleep, 
arose and awoke the little choir, who, as quietly as possible, stole to the 
parlor to be ready to welcome in the Christmas morning, after twelve, by 
chanting the "Gloria" and "Adeste Fideles." The heavenly sound 
awoke the parents, who listened as only parents could listen, and united 
14* 



154 JENNY C. WHITE DEL £AZ. 



New Year's Day — The Past. 

Santiago, January ist, 1864. 

Happy, happy New Year to all ! — Parents, brothers, 
sisters, uncles, aunts, family, and friends, in New York, 
Binghamton, Detroit, Georgetown, and Manhattanville. 
If you can only have all the blessings my heart wishes 
you, you will have a happy and prosperous year, my 
loved ones. 

I am so glad my dear brother Frank arrived before 
Christmas, for you will truly have a festive time, please 
God. I almost see what you are doing at home, and 
have described to them here with minuteness our holi- 
day seasons. 

I am most anxious to hear of the Christmas concert, 
which I am sure did justice to the teacher and pupils.* 
I am much pleased to hear dear Nett has so improved in 
her singing and playing. " I expect to be very much 
surprised" when we meet again. 

Be sure to tell me what you all wore on New Year's 
day. In honor of this day, I have put on a white dress, 
black velvet bodice, blue ribbon in my hair and on my 

their prayers to the offering. When that first adoration was over, then 
came the children, one and all, racing to the parents' room, to receive the 
"happy Christmas," and to see their gifts, and the house rang with shouts 
of joy that awakened the neighbors. 

* Her sister Bhoda (Mrs. Mack) took her place, and prepared for their 
parents the Christmas concert, which was always given to show their im- 
provement in music during the year. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 155 

dress. I forgot to tell you (as you desired) that I wore, 
at the Spanish ball in Panama, my white lace dress over 
blue silk, colored flowers in my hair and on the waist of 
my dress, which was a beautiful one. I always wore at 
the balls, on one shoulder, my colors (red, white, and 
blue), to show I was an American ! 

A year ago last night we were arranging the parlor for 
New Year's day, and Rho, Nett, and I superintending 
the finishing of our dresses. This is a day I always en- 
joyed so much at home ; but I must not indulge myself 
in looking back : experience has taught me it is not cal- 
culated to cheer me. And now I must begin to be 
cheerful, and cheer them all. 

A happy, happy New Year to all ! With the fondest 
love of your devoted child to you, my darling parents, let 
me give you each a good hug. 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

What courage ! 



New Year's Eve in Santiago — Singing College Songs — Song of John Brown 
enthusiastically received — National Dances. 

Santiago, January $th, 1864. 

My darling Parents, — I sent a mail-bag to you of 
forty pages on the 3d 

Our New Year's evening passed off more pleasantly 
than I expected. We resolved to begin the New Year 



156 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

in a lively manner, as I told you, dear mother, I would. 
Mrs. Francisco Fabrega (an aunt of Bernardino), Dr. 
Dickson, Mr. Facio (who was heretofore the life of every 
company, and gave many delightful entertainments at his 
house), Mr. Alcedo, and Mr. Montiere (a French engi- 
neer, who is spending some time here,) happened in to 
see us. 

We first drew our patron saints for the year. I drew 
St. Rose of Lima,* and after that we had a lively 
evening. I sang a great deal. We had college songs, and 
" John Brown ; " Dr. Dickson, who sings very well, Don 
Facio, and Bernardino joining in the chorus. And they 
got so thoroughly into the spirit of the glee, that I 
thought my chorus-singers would take the roof off the 
house before we concluded our evening. All confessed 
the amusement had done them good. We are determined 
to keep it up. 

Last night, after singing a great deal, I wound up the 
evening by dancing one of their national dances that I 
had seen one of my Spanish cousins dance in Panama. 

They were perfectly delighted to see me do this for 
them, and you can imagine how enthusiastically they 
received it ! It was a dance in which you sing and dance 
together. Tell Nett I am going back to the days of my 
youth ! 

If I only had even one of you here to help me I could 
do a great many things. 

* This was an austere saint of South America, but one chosen by Jenny 
as a model when a child, before she saw Bernardino, or supposed South 
America would be her home. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 157 

Don Francisco Fabrega, who was governor (indeed, he 
had complete control of the Isthmus), is now in exile in 
Central America. He was very popular. He lived in 
great style here, kept open house, and gave fine entertain- 
ments. The two years he was governor, he spent besides 
his salary (six thousand a year and a house) twenty-five 
thousand dollars. He wrote to his wife to tell me how 
much he regretted not being here, to do his part towards 
welcoming and receiving me, and to say I would not have 
stayed a night, but a week, at his country-seat, on my way 
here, and that my family would have been sent for there 
to meet me. Now his home is lonely, his house stripped 
of almost every article of furniture, and his wife in con- 
stant fear that their son Frank will be assassinated ; one 
daughter a widow, from the death of her husband, Gover- 
nor Guadia ; the other daughter with her, because her hus- 
band is an exile in Central America. This is the change 
in one family, owing to the revolution. Can you blame 
them for being sad ? Scarcely a family here, of respect- 
ability, but have some just cause for depression ; and the 
worst of it is, we can hope for nothing better while this 
government lasts. 

• Dr. Dickson was very glad to hear that Nellie met his 
adopted sister. If she inherits the talent of her mother, 
her acquaintance would be desirable. The doctor has 
read to me most interesting extracts from his mother's 
letters, which showed a mind of great natural talent and 
vigor, refined by education and intercourse with the world, 
Mrs. Rui's brother is Brigadier-General Kilby Smith, of 



158 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Mississippi River fame. Mr. Rui studied law with Mr. 
Seward. 

I cannot realize that this is the holiday season in New 
York. I am now seated in my room, with my windows 
and doors open ; the fragrance of roses fills the air, and 
the thermometer is at eighty-four degrees ; while you are 
shutting out the cold, by closing every crevice through 
which the air could enter. The nights are cool ; towards 
morning chilly enough to sleep comfortably under a 
blanket. 

I must write to-night to Panama. I have kept up a 
brisk correspondence with Mrs. Sosa and the girls. Ber- 
nardino is quite delighted with my improvement in writ- 
ing Spanish. I really feel attached to that family. The 
daughters were brought up after your own heart, dear 

mother, and Mrs. Sosa is a saint 

My darling parents' devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



BIRTHDAY LETTER TO HER FATHER. 
Spanish Feast on a Hacienda — Death of Edward White, Jenny's Grandfather. 

Santiago, January igtk, 1864. 

My dearest Father, — A thousand good wishes are 

in my heart for you, my beloved father, this day. How 

happy would I be could I but be with you, to express 

them ; but for the present that pleasure is denied me 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 159 

and I must content myself by praying, in my far-off 
home, that your New Year may be filled with blessings, 
and that you may live to see many more birthdays come 
around, in happiness and prosperity. 

How many recollections of " papa's birthday " this day 
brings to my mind ! A great holiday always ! Pocket- 
money given by papa in the morning to " the children," 
who then spent the whole day in discussing, deciding 
upon, and purchasing the gifts which were to "sur- 
prise " (!) him in the evening ! Ah, dear childhood, with 
all its troubles, is a happy time, but, with such parents 
as mine, never to be forgotten ! 

To-morrow will be the birthday of my angel child, 
your namesake, father. He is, I am sure, pouring forth 
his supplications before the throne of God for you 
to-day 

I am quite lonely to-day. Bernardino has gone to one 
of his haciendas, and Julianna and her husband have also 
gone to their country-place, to try change of air for Mr. 
Miro, who is still sick. It is a great disappointment to 
me not to be able to go to the country, for every one says 
it is delightful to be there this season ; but the doctor 
will not consent that I should ride on horseback, and I 
would not wish to do anything imprudent. 

At one of Don Santiago del Bal's haciendas he had, 
last week, what they call a feast. It is something like a 
bee for the purpose of marking the cattle. There are a 
certain number of neighbors who are invited to assist in 
the work ; but a general invitation is given to the people, 
far and wide, to assist at the sports which follow. Such 



160 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

a festival always attracts together quite a number, cele- 
brated for their skill in the management of horses, or for 
their strength and dexterity as " toreadors." Fast horses 
are brought by their owners to display their qualities in the 
race. Wild horses are broken and trained, and some of 
the wonders of horsemanship shown are worthy of Rarey. 
Wild bulls are kept in enclosures, until, at a given word, 
they are liberated, when a race ensues between them and 
men on horseback, the object of the horsemen being to 
catch the bull by the tail and throw him to the ground ! 
You can imagine what great strength and dexterity it 
takes to succeed in this feat. The night is spent in 
dancing. 

The gentleman, at whose hacienda the feast is given, 
provides a liberal supply of refreshments, and plenty of 
" chicha " and whiskey ; but, besides these, a great many 
of the country-people have little booths and tables for the 
sale of different articles. It takes place on a large prairie, 
several miles in extent, and seems something like a fair. 
The people are too much like the Irish not to have their 
" fights " ! One of the men came here yesterday, and I 
said, "Well, Felix, you had a great feast: how was it?" 
" Oh, yes, mam, a great many fights and a great deal of 
whiskey " ! Don Santiago says, when I am well, he will 
give another feast to the people, so that I may see it. 

January 20th. — I have written fifty 

pages home this month. If you do not receive letters, 
never think I do not write 

I am quite noted here, and have been obliged to spend 
much of the time I have set apart for writing in writing 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 161 

Spanish letters to the Consul and President of the States, 
at the request of several gentlemen here. I shine, how- 
ever, entirely by reflected light. It is owing to my being 
daughter of Judge White, of New York, that I am of 
influence 

I have such a longing to see you all, and my desire to 
join you when I think of you is so intense, that it almost 
seems as if I reached you in spirit 

January 2&tk. — My dearest father, I received, last 
night, letters from home, bringing me the sad news of 
my dear Grandfather White's death ! . , . 

My dear grandfather ! He said he would never see 
me again ! It makes me very sad. I realize now, more 
than ever, how far we are separated from you all. If I 
feel his death so much, what must it be to his children ? 
Dear mother's description of his death was so minute, 
and so consoling and edifying, that it left a most peaceful 
impression on my mind, and took from me all the fear I 
had of death* " Truly, this is the death of a saint," said 
Bernardino's sister, when I described it to her and the 
family. Please say to all my dear aunts and to Uncle 
John how much I sympathize with them. 

What an incentive to lead a good life are the death- 
beds of those we have seen go before us in the family ! 
How trifling all their trials seem to them, now that 
they are enjoying the reward which patient endur- 
ance of suffering gained for them, — a reward so in- 
estimable ! 

* This was the effect produced by his calm death upon every one of his 
family, who stood around him at that hour. 
15 



162 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

The letter from dear Father O'Reilly did not reach 
me. I cannot express my disappointment. 

Praying that the other members of my family will be 
spared in health, I am darling father's 
Attached child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Birth of a Daughter — Cotton Planting — Cotton Speculations — Mrs. Fabrega 
— A Friend. 



Santiago, January ^ot/i, 1864. 

My dearest Mother, — I am sitting beside my sweet 
little baby, little Rhoda ; and what would I not give, dear 
mother, if you could see her ? She looks so like my dar- 
ling little angel James, that it makes me sad to look at 
her. She must look like Rhoda's little Dodo, every 
one thinks. 

Since I wrote last, I have passed a most anxious time. 
She has been very ill, and from my anxiety about her, 
and the care, I became very sick for several days. Oh, 
how I miss you, dear mother, at these times ! It is awful 
for an American to have children here. After confine- 
ment, you are kept in a perfect purgatory, for fear of what 
they call " spasmio," — a kind of convulsion. Imagine the 
thermometer at ninety degrees, the windows and doors all 
closed, cracks stopped up with paper, and your bed hung 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 163 

around with sheets and blankets, lest by chance any air 
should come in ! You must drink warm drinks, and have, 
for diet, chicken soup, several days. I was kept unusually 
closely confined because I am a foreigner, and, for the 
same reason, I dared not rebel. My blood became so 
heated that I was nearly wild. 

The baby is a great favorite with all. It makes me 
lonesome, when I see them petting her, to think not one 

of my own family can see her Thank dear 

Rho for the baptismal dress. These things from home 
make me homesick 

Your letters from home are a perfect treat. I read, 
read, and re-read them. If you could realize how great 
the pleasure is to me when I receive them, and how few 
pleasures I can have here, you would not think of the 
trouble it is to write them. After I have read them, I 
count the days till I can hear again 

Bernardino has been with me since Christmas, but in 
a few days must leave me. They are cropping cotton 
here ; and, although all have suffered from the worm, 
great quantities of cotton are brought into Santiago, 
and several gins are in active operation. All, I be- 
lieve, will continue the business next year. They made 
a great mistake, I think, in planting the Costa Rica 
and Sea Island cotton, instead of the native. Some of 
the latter was sent to Europe, and pronounced nearly 
equal to Sea Island. It is very hardy, becomes a real 
tree, and produces more every year for eight or ten 
years. 

We do not know what to do. If Bernardino continues 



164 JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 

with the plantation where he is, he will be alone ; Mr. 
Miro will not be there this year. This will be to com- 
mence another year of toil and separation; and yet, in 
times like these, it seems hard to abandon a cotton plan- 
tation of one hundred acres, that next year will, please 
God, do wonderfully well. Cotton must make money 
here. The country people are all aroused on the subject, 
and few but have sown a few acres, and all will sow in 
larger quantities this year. There are machines at work 
even in little villages ; and really this town looks quite 
awakened, for all day long horses and mules are bring- 
ing in cotton for sale. Speculators are buying it here at 
good prices 

Thank dear father for the " Tribune." It comes regu- 
larly. Papers and magazines are scarce here, — even light 
reading, except French and Spanish novels, not to be 
found without difficulty, and I have felt sadly the need 
of good light reading. 

I hope Nett will not be disappointed in her Washing- 
ton trip. I know what light-hearted happiness she will 
enjoy this winter ; it is such as precedes the sorrows of 
life 

I value dear Father O'Reilly's counsel and advice more 
than any of you can, for I am cut off from all direction. 
I do indeed value it. Not a word of spiritual consolation 
here, when you are fainting by the roadside, nor to direct 
you when you feel strong for action. Inez and I often 
mourn over this. The persecution does not seem to have 
done much good. 

The day of the birth of the baby I was blessed by the 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 165 

presence of a very holy priest from an Indian mission, 
who heard my confession. He was almost equal to Father 
Driscol. I have never been so convinced of the direct 
inspiration of the Holy Ghost in the confessional as since 
I came here 

Mrs. Fabrega, I believe, has a real love for me. She 
says often to me, " Jenny, your mother is not here, but 
what you would like your mother to do, ask me without 
hesitation, for you know the real pleasure it will give 
me." Her only daughter, a great pet, is in a strange 
country, without any one of her family, and I think this is 
one cause of her attachment to me 

Ask Miss Mullany for the address of one of the cardi- 
nals in Rome, of whom she spoke to me. I wish to write 
to him 

I recommend myself and my affairs to your prayers. 

Love to all, all at home, from your too loving child, 
Jenny C. White del Bal. 

Remember me to Dr. and Mrs. Whiting, dear mother. 



Santiago, February yth, 1864. 
My darling Mother, — . ... I am now very 
well, thank God, and trust I am acclimated. The fevers 
here are not as severe as with us ; the fever and ague 
very light, and leaves no ill effects like ours in the States. 
Santiago is really a healthy place. 

15* 



166 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

All your letters came, but neither dear Father O'Reilly's 
letter, nor the photograph. Please send me Father 
O'Reilly's address. We are so destitute of all religious 
consolation and advice, that a letter from a good father, 
like Father O'Reilly, would be like a fountain of water to 
the traveller in the desert. 

I still dream of you every night. All last night I was 
parting from you at home or here, dearest mother, and 
although I got up and walked around, I slept again but 
to dream and weep for you. 

.Asa natural consequence, I am homesick this morning. 
An attempt, for several days, to choke back my feelings, 
always ends in a fit of desperate homesickness, and I am 
then better awhile 

What a magnificent Christmas tree you had prepared 
by John and Rho ! I could see you all around it ; and 
above all Nett's delight ! 

February \Zth. — My dear mother, I have a great favor 
to ask of you, — that you let Lucy come here with Mr. 
Garcia, on his return from Europe. I will be perfectly 
delighted if you will, and will take the best care of her. 
. . . . I do not ask Netty ; she is just in the enjoy- 
ment of her debut in New York If you 

can grant this favor Bernardino and I will be so happy. 
Just such summer clothing as you would prepare for her 
at home, with a worsted sack for chilly evenings, will do, 
and a short black veil for church. We have an excellent 
doctor here, — Dr. Dickson, — who studies and keeps up 
with the times. 

Everybody is growing crazy about cotton-raising. Ber- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 167 

nardino has a large cotton plantation, six hours' ride from 
here. Cotton grows everywhere here, even in the streets, 
if the seed falls there ; but here they do not understand 
its cultivation. We are in great hopes of the success of 
this enterprise. According to all calculation, even at 
twenty cents a pound, it ought to be a very lucrative 
business. 

If God blesses us, and prospers us, T hope we will go 
on to New York to sell our second crop of cotton. 

I had hoped, dear mother,' to send you, before this, 
specimens of gold here ; but many obstacles have been in 
the way. Miro and Bernardino have been to the placers, 
but the people who understood gold-washing had moved 
away. The mines we hoped to get, the owners would not 
sell as soon as they thought we wished to buy. It raised 
their ideas to an extravagant height. Miro and Bernar- 
dino call this my business, and are amused at my earnest- 
ness. Therefore, dear mother, do not despair. 

A French company is working the mine in Mineral de 
Veraguas. The French engineer, on his way from Pan- 
ama to the port of Mineral de Veraguas, fell overboard, 
and was eaten by a shark. His associate is working the 
mineSj and told me that they are very valuable. 

A few days ago, a foreigner on his way from Panama, 
with ten thousand dollars to invest here in cotton, was 
shipwrecked. 

If we could only have peace and a good government, it 
would all be well here. Scarcely a week passes without 
a political excitement. Every few days there is a report 
that men are to be enlisted ; when the rumor is well cir- 



168 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 

culated, the country people fly to the mountains and 
caves. Neither laborers nor provisions from the country 
can be bought. 

The State of Antioquia has revolted, they say, and 
Mosquera has called for five thousand men from this 
State, — fifteen hundred to come from this department. 
The population of this latter is thirty-eight thousand. 
There is no drafting, but a recruiting-officer comes with 
a certain .number of men, and goes out generally at 
night, catches the men, brings them in bound with ropes, 
and carries them off ! No arrangement for sending them 
home, when service is over, being made, the poor fellows 
know pretty well that, once in the interior of the republic, 
it will be no easy matter to return to their families. To 
avoid this fate, and save the little property they have, 
they hide in places where it is most unfit to live, and con- 
sequently take most dangerous fevers. 

As an American, I must approve the Monroe doctrine ; 
but, as a resident here, I say, Welcome the Czar of Russia, 
if he could offer us peace, in preference to that despotism 
of anarchy which we now suffer. 

I have written to Mr. Lincoln, in accordance with his 
request, and also on the subject of "citizens abroad," as 
treason in his message ! We Americans feel pained at 
the idea of the possibility of our being deprived of our 
citizenship ; and I wrote to Mr. Lincoln, suggesting taxa- 
tion, if necessary ; to which I am sure, from what I have 
heard, all the Americans here would submit with pleas- 
ure. Do, dear father, put in a good word for us when 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 169 

you have the President's ear. It will be terrible if we 
are cut off by our government. 

I am ashamed to send you such letters ; but, as you sur- 
mised, I am far from lazy here, and every day finds me 
with more to do than I can always accomplish. My 
frequent sickness has prevented me often from answering 
my letters, and my correspondence looks pretty formida- 
ble for the next few weeks. It is a pleasant duty to write 
to those I love. 

Now that I am well again I enjoy a walk by moonlight 
on the plain, — such as I described on my journey, — and 
we usually end the evening by a call somewhere. I spent 
last evening with Inez Arosemena j her society and 
friendship is a great comfort to me. Her mother-in-law, 
Mrs. Fabrega, told me the other day that her husband said 
of her, " Inez is a little angel, whom God has sent here, 
that by her words and example I may save my soul." He 
was quite an old gentleman, and had never, I believe, been 
to holy communion ; but before the churches were closed 
he and all the family received the blessed sacrament. 
Mrs. Fabrega is a very holy lady, agreeable, and a woman 
of the world. She is wealthy, and was very gay, but 
during the revolution here she made a vow to wear what 
they call here a habit (that is, a purple or brown dress for 
life), if her husband passed through the revolution un- 
harmed ; although, at the time they had to fly, no one 
was injured, and even the house in which they lived 
escaped being robbed, while the furniture of all others, as 
good, was completely destroyed. Mrs. Fabrega and 
Inez have entered into my project of getting a good 



170 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

priest here. I need not add that Bernardino's family are 
equally zealous in this good work. 

I have received a letter from the American consul, and 
I find, on account of his not being consul-general, he can- 
not do much for us Americans (Dr. Dickson and I) in 
case of danger.. 

Two weeks since, the whole State was in an excitement, 
owing to a report that Don Francisco Fabrega was to 
arrive at Montijo, the port of Santiago, with men from 
Costa Rica, to invade the Isthmus. 

All the gentlemen were called out to repel the expected 
invader. Bernardino was summoned, but was sick. He 
sent word that he was an American citizen, and would 
not take arms. 

The prefecto, who is an ignorant white man, said that 
he must appear before him with his excuse ; that " once 
any one set foot in the dominion of the States of Colum- 
bia, I the prefecto, recognize no allegiance to any other 
government." Both Bernardino and I determined that 
he would go to prison before he would serve ; for he would 
only suffer once, doing thus, whereas if he admitted any 
unjust claim of this government, his life would not be 
worth having here. Thank God, the rumor was false, 
and all retired quietly. 

My letters are so unsatisfactory, I am ashamed to send 
them. They are written amid so many interruptions, and 
at odd moments, it could hardly be otherwise. You will 
excuse them. Of this be sure, — they can never tell how 
much I love you all, from you, dearest parents, down to 
dear little " Dodo." 



JENNT C. WHITE DEL SAL. 171 

I write all my letters to you, my darling parents ; but 
in doing so I intend them for the whole family. Each 
member is before me when I write. 

I am very anxious about our cotton speculation. I try 
to prepare myself for a disappointment. 

My dear parents' loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



HOPEFUL LETTER FROM DON BERNARDINO DEL BAL. 

Jenny's Popularity — Cotton Speculation. 

Santiago, February 20tk, 1864. 

My dear Father, — By a letter written to my beloved 
Jenny, by dear mother, I learned the sad news of your 
dear father's death. In this affliction Jenny and I have 

our share His many long years of trial he 

passed with his family in the exercise of many religious 
and charitable deeds. He has gone to a great reward. 
Why should we be gloomy and low-spirited ? . . . . 

I know you will be glad to hear that my beloved Jenny 
is loved and liked by every member of my family, and 
every person in this town. This is nothing more than I 
expected and she deserves. She spares neither time nor 
labor to please and do good to the people. She is there- 
fore universally admired; they all consider her a living 
saint, for besides her virtues and good disposition, she 



172 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

bears everything patiently, — never rinding fault, but mak- 
ing excuses for every one ; thus she makes good friends 
everywhere. No one has been disappointed in her, no 
matter how much they had heard and expected from 
her 

At present we are thinking of the cultivation of cotton. 
That subject is the lion of the day. My brother-in-law, 
Mr. Miro, and myself, God willing, are going into the 
business. To-morrow we intend to start for Montijo, to 
search for a good place near a port. Cotton grows well 
here everywhere 

Please give my love to dear mother, and every member 
of the family. Tell the dear nun Nell, I hope she con- 
tinues to pray for me. 

Believe me to be, dear sir, with much respect, your 
affectionate son and humble servant, 

Bernardino del Bal. 

Hon. James W. White. 



So far we find Jenny, since her departure from her 
native land, suffering much. A long and disastrous 
journey, homesickness almost more than she could 
bear, illness that wore away her strength and endan- 
gered her life, grief for her lost child, and the death 
of a revered grandparent, have sorrowed her young heart. 
They have bruised but not crushed it. The generosity 
of her soul, and the charity with which it is inflamed, 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 173 

make her conceal her own pain, to cheer and revive 
those drooping and fainting around her. " No time nor 
labor is spared to please or do good to the people," writes 
her husband, and " she won all hearts." Jenny went to 
Santiago with a belief that she was needed and called 
there to do good (this secret, from humility, she confided 
only to her mother, from whom no thought was ever 
hidden) ; and she sought good will and popularity, 
not to feed a vain and sinful pride, but as a means to 
reach the hearts and confidence of those whom she hoped 
to aid. No doubt we will find her henceforward (having 
gained the point of being beloved by all) using that 
influence for the benefit of those who have so generously 
bestowed it upon her. 



LETTER TO ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 

Interesting Appeal to the President in Behalf of Americans abroad — The Inhabi- 
tants of the Country — The Political State — Its Products — Cause of the 
Elevation of Mosquera — His Despotism — Our Slaves sent to Chiriqui. 

Santiago, February 22d, 1864. 
Dear Sir, — When my husband and I called in August, 
1862, to pay our respects to Mrs. Lincoln and yourself, 
before leaving the country for a few years' residence in 
New Grenada, you, dear sir, requested me to write to you 
from my new home, — a request to which I accede gladly, 
16 



174 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

and with more pleasure, as you jestingly added, "I will 
read every line of your letters." In consequence of the 
unsettled state of the government, our departure from 
New York was delayed until the following June. 

I now trespass on your valuable time from a twofold 
motive : first, to accomplish my promise ; secondly, to 
say a few words to you, dear sir, on a subject touched 
upon in your message of December last, which interests 
me deeply, as I am now included among the "American 
citizens abroad," and my husband is one of its most de- 
voted and loyal naturalized citizens. 

We, as well as a large number of American citizens 
residing in this State, Isthmus of Panama, feel grieved 
that we, who are unwilling exiles from home, may also 
be deprived of our title of American citizens, to defend 
which, I am sure, many, if not all, abroad, would cheer- 
fully sacrifice their fortunes and lives, if necessary. Per- 
mit me to say, dear sir, I think you misjudge the absent 
citizens of both classes alluded to in your message. They 
are, I think, wanting in neither patriotism nor loyalty. 

You say, dear sir, that the privilege has been abused. 
The simple fact that a foreigner testifies his love and 
admiration for our government by renouncing his allegi- 
ance to his own, and swearing fidelity to ours, cannot, I 
think, be the abuse. Still less can it be so, it appears to 
me, if he does this when he knows that circumstances 
beyond his control may oblige him to live estranged from 
the land of his adoption, — by which absence he is deprived 
of nearly all the privileges of a citizen, and yet can enjoy 
none of the immunities of a subject of the country in 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 175 

which he resides. It is true, in case of danger, such per- 
sons may claim the protection of our flag ; and, thank 
God ! rebellion has not rendered that star-spangled ban- 
ner powerless to protect its faithful adherents, be they 
found where they may, nor has treason made it less able 
or willing than it has heretofore been to receive under 
the shade of its ample folds those who fly to it for 
refuge. 

One cause of complaint, I presume, is, that citizens 
residing in foreign countries contribute nothing towards 
the support of the government ; but where is the fault, 
dear sir ? No such citizen ever claimed the exemption ; 
and, on the contrary, many loyal men abroad have sent 
liberal donations towards the support of the country in 
which they glory, and whose reputation they extend and 
sustain in whatever land necessity may have obliged them 
to reside. 

To obviate this ground of complaint, however, permit 
me to suggest, dear sir, the imposition of a personal tax 
on all citizens residing in foreign countries. The collec- 
tion of the tax need involve no additional expense to the 
government, as the consuls might collect it, — each Amer- 
ican being required to leave his name and address with 
his consul ; it being understood that those failing to do so 
are to be denied protection. The Americans on the 
Isthmus, who are nearly all strong Union men, would, I 
feel confident, welcome such an arrangement. 

I beg, dear sir, you will pardon the liberty I have taken 
in addressing you on this subject. My love of country 
must be my apology. I fear the treasure I so proudly 



176 JENNY C. WHITE DEL HAL. 

boast — my American citizenship — is to be taken from 
me ; and, in my desire to save it, I have, perhaps, tres- 
passed too far both on your time and patience ; but so 
true a patriot as yourself, dear sir, can appreciate my 
feelings, and forgive me. 

I have now resided over six months in this country, 
and have, through my husband's position, many oppor- 
tunities for observing both men and manners. 

I presume, your object in asking me to write to you 
was to obtain some information respecting the country, 
which, though insignificant among the greater political 
powers, has an importance from its geographical position. 
Strange to say, although, for the last fourteen years, so 
many thousands of my countrymen have passed through 
the Isthmus, as little is really known in the United States 
of the people, their politics, and their resources, as of 
those of Japan. A general vague idea is entertained 
that its inhabitants are semi-civilized Indians and ne- 
groes, who live in a perpetual state of revolution, and 
that all distinction of race and class is unknown here ! 
As briefly as possible, I will give you, dear sir, the result 
of my observations. 

The country itself is a beautiful one, rich in all tropical 
productions, and on the high table-lands many, if not all 
those, of a more temperate clime may be successfully 
cultivated. Cotton, said to be of excellent quality, is 
indigenous, and this year is being extensively cultivated. 

The means of communication are poor ; but in many 
places good roads might be made with little trouble or 
expense. There are two seasons, — the rainy and the 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. Ill 

dry. The dry season commences nominally in Decem- 
ber (though during this month there are occasional 
showers), and lasts until April, when the winter or rainy 
season sets in. October and November are the two 
most severe months of winter. During these, it rains 
daily for several hours, with occasional consecutive days 
of steady rain. The range of the thermometer is, I be- 
lieve, from seventy to ninety degrees. The climate of the 
Isthmus is generally healthy. At the change of seasons 
chills and fevers prevail to some extent, but they seldom 
assume a dangerous form. 

The reputation the Isthmus acquired among us, during 
the construction of the Panama railroad, is to be attrib- 
uted to the fact that the men employed were working in 
swamps ; sleeping on the damp ground in the night air ; 
eating fruits, many of which, if eaten together, are highly 
dangerous \ and drinking large quantities of whiskey, 
which, if taken after some fruits, acts as poison. 

The inhabitants are divided into three classes : whites, 
mestizos (Indian and white), and negroes. The first 
class, which is in the minority, are the descendants of 
the old Spanish settlers, some of them natives of Spain. 
These retain all the characteristics of their country. 
Aristocratic in their feelings, tenacious to a degree in 
point of birth, they have never intermarried with the 
natives. 

The men are intelligent, well educated, refined, — I 

may say, accomplished gentlemen. Those of the last 

generation were educated chiefly in Europe. Many of 

the young men of the present generation have pursued 
16* 



178 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

their studies in the United States, and have acquired to a 
certain extent our enterprising spirit and activity in 
business. The late governor, Santiago de la Guadia, who 
was killed in one of the battles in the late rebellion, was 
a man of energy and liberal ideas, and had many plans 
on foot for the progress of the State, when his life fell a 
victim to his loyalty. 

The ladies are affable, intelligent, and extremely pleas- 
ing in their manners. With the exception of those who 
have been educated abroad, the advantages of education 
afforded them have been limited ; but this one finds diffi- 
cult to realize in their society, their conversational powers 
are naturally so great. Indeed, the society here, though 
small, is delightful. Some of the entertainments given in 
Panama, which I attended, — among them the ball in 
honor of the Spanish fleet then visiting the port, — rivalled 
in many respects some of our best New York balls. 

The second and most numerous class, the mestizos, are 
a fine race in many respects. They seem laborious, but 
have no system in their labor. I think them naturally 
inclined to peace, and can only ascribe the frequency of 
revolutions among them to the influence of the political 
leaders here, who are undoubtedly statesmen and gen- 
erals, and usually men of intellect, but who are, almost 
without exception, entirely actuated by motives of selfish 
ambition, and utterly devoid of patriotic feeling. 

The people generally are more ready to worship arid 
follow a leader than to fight for, or be governed by, a 
principle. The old system of adherence to a chief has 
not forsaken them. 



JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 179 

The third and lowest class consists of negroe. These 
people are much the same wherever you find them, I 
believe. They are admitted to no social privileges ; but 
their civil rights are equal to those of the whites. Some 
of them have risen to some political distinction by their 
talents, and held some of the inferior offices. Many of 
them are emancipated slaves, — emancipation having 
taken place here about 1850. Now, since the success of 
the last rebellion, 1862, the country is, I may say, governed 
by the mestizos and negroes, they being generally the 
partisans of Mosquera. Public offices have been placed 
in the hands of some who can hardly sign their names. 

Questions of political economy, which in most coun- 
tries give wise statesmen cause for thought, are dis- 
missed and disposed of by those officials without the least 
hesitation. 

The politics of this country are so little understood in 
the United States, that even the "Evening Post," of 
New York, constantly represented the cause of Mosquera 
as the loyal one, calling those attached to the legitimate 
government the rebels. 

The real state of the case is as follows : Mosquera was 
governor of the State of Cauca during the former admin- 
istration. Certain laws were passed which he deemed 
unconstitutional, and, joined by one or two other States, 
he resisted. When the president undertook to enforce 
them, he raised the standard of rebellion, and, after several 
years' war, has been successful. He called a convention, 
which convention framed a constitution, and named him 



180 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

president for one year, till April next, when Congress 
will meet. 

During his rebellion he was named provisional president 
by the States that had espoused his cause. While hold- 
ing this office he issued the laws of " mortmain " and 
"tincion." Under the mortmain law, all churches, 
convents, hospitals, and charitable institutions of all 
kinds have been robbed of their property belonging to 
them, and the priests and nuns exiled. 

The constitution which was drawn up sounds well and 
proclaims religious liberty ; yet no minister of any denom- 
ination can officiate until he has taken the oath of allegi- 
ance, not as an ordinary citizen, but under a law made 
especially for priests, and which recognizes Mosquera as 
head of all churches in his dominion, with right of in- 
spection over all religious worship. 

This oath no Catholic priest can take, for by it he would 
approve and sanction the disbanding of all religious 
orders and the robbery of the Church property. Thus 
our churches are closed, and these pretended lovers of 
liberty, whose watchword is " civilization " have plunged 
the country into a state, which bids fair to rival France 
in her wildest days of miscalled liberty and infidelity. 
There are mortmain agents in every little town, whose 
zeal is worthy of a better cause. 

I disclaim all knowledge of, or interest in, the mere 
party politics of the country, nor can I say that the con- 
servative party held principles more favorable to the 
republic, but it was certainly more Christian. The pres- 
ent, government on paper as a written constitution, is a 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 181 

liberal republic, but in fact is a despotism. I think, from 
the president to the alcalde of the smallest town, each 
in his sphere rules supreme, issuing decrees, levying 
taxes, etc., without any regard to the constitution or 
laws. 

As the government has been supported and instituted 
by the lower classes, to gratify them laws have been made 
which have a strong tendency to communism. Indeed 
the country is in a most unhappy condition. This being 
the case, you, dear sir, can believe lovers of peace and 
good order look with horror on the possibility of any 
considerable number of our American slaves being col- 
onized in Chiriqui.* 

I have already intruded upon you too long, dear sir, 
and only regret I did not know on what points you par- 
ticularly wished information with regard to this country ; 
as, knowing these, I might have made my letter of some 
interest. 

With kind regards and respects to Mrs. Lincoln and 
yourself, in which my husband joins me, 

I am, dear sir, with esteem, yours truly, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

His Excellency Abraham Lincoln. 

* The project was seriously entertained, for a time by some persons who 
urged it upon our government. 



182 JENNY C. WHITE DEL JBAL. 



Anniversary of the Death of Jenny's Child — Holy Week — Ceremonies of Holy 
Thursday and Good Friday — Jenny sings Stabat Mater — First Lady 
who ever sang in Church here — Ideas of Jenny's Accomplishments and 
Energy. 

Santiago, March 2.6th, 1864. 

My darling Parents, — A year ago to-day you were 
watching with me, and by me, too, when Bernardino, my 
angel child James, and I seemed so near death ! You 
know, dearest parents, from your own trials, that the 
grief at the loss of a child can never be forgotten, or 
cease to be remembered with a bitter pang ; but, thank 
God ! I can feel happier and more resigned than at that 
time seemed possible. I fully realize my angel's happi- 
ness, and his great power to help us here ; and it is a 
pleasure to me to think I have a child a saint with God, 
to whom I recommend all my cares and troubles, and 
who will, I think, pray so constantly for us that we will 
not fail to be reunited to him one day.* .... 

. . . Letters from home, — from Washington, from 
Rho, Loo, Nett, and Tom. You do indeed write me a 
journal, dear mother. Oh ! what great pleasure these 
dear letters afford me ! 

Bernardino is home from the cotton plantation on a 
visit of three days only, and then goes again, to be absent 
two weeks. During last month he only came home 
once. To do so, he travelled all Saturday night, spent 

* This belief in the intercession of our loved ones, who have gone to 
heaven, is a most consoling one in the hour of sorrow. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 183 

Sunday and Sunday night, and left early Monday morn- 
ing. 

How beautifully the house at home must look ! , . . 

Don Santiago was pleased with your photograph, father. 
" A boy yet ! " he exclaimed. He is eighty, and con- 
siders you (not yet sixty) young. He is very active, — 
rides miles without fatigue 

I can scarcely say which of Bernardino's sisters I like 
best, Manuela or Julianna. Both are very lovable. 
Julianna has a more progressive spirit, — would be per- 
fectly happy to be able to devote her whole time to 
reading and study ; is naturally lively and vivacious in 
conversation. Manuela is rather more sedate, but has a 
great deal of sound, good judgment, and a great head 
for business. She is very agreeable in conversation, with 
a great deal of quiet humor about her. She says less 
than she does ; is naturally dignified and graceful. There 
is the most perfect unity in the family. 

We have passed a sad Holy Week. Yet the church 
has been opened for prayers, and we assembled ; have 
spent several hours each day there.* On Holy Thursday 
we had a statue of our Saviour kneeling placed in the 
middle of the sanctuary, which was nearly filled with 
trees to represent the Garden of Olives. Suspended by 
a wire was an angel presenting to him the chalice. It 
was quite imposing, but it seemed a faint shadow of what 
we ought to have on that day. On Good Friday the sanc- 
tuary was arranged as a Calvary. A large crucifix, with 

* Jenny suggested and led the way in this devotion. 



184 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

a figure life-size, was placed in the centre, the Mater 
Dolorosa, St. John, and St. Mary Magdalen stood at the 
foot of the cross. 

All the ladies and gentlemen and every one dress in 
mourning on Good Friday. Stores are closed, and 
scarcely a sound heard. Every place looks sad. Hun- 
dreds of people come in from the surrounding country, 
six, eight, and ten miles round, to attend the offices. 

The choir is composed of male voices, accompanied by 
a band, violins, guitars, flutes, and triangles. Some of 
the ladies begged me to sing the " Stabat Mater " Good 
Friday (last night). I hastily arranged one, and an ad- 
mirable violin-player accompanied me. Bernardino said 
it was very fine. The church was very crowded, and the 
doors all open ; yet it seemed easy to sing. My singing 
created quite an excitement. It was the first time a lady 
had sung here. Julianna and Inez accompanied me in 
the choir. Our leader of the choir said, " Senora, our 
bass singer proposed accompanying you ; but I said when 
we had the real thing, anything inferior was no help." 

You would wonder how I could write if you saw me 
now, so occupied by a variety of things, — the house full 
of men, coming to engage themselves for the cotton plan- 
tation ; buying things to send there ; superintending the 
packing of them ; trying between times to go to church, 
and interrupted by men from all our haciendas, coming to 
see Bernardino these few days he is at home, stopping 
now and then to chat a little ! 

. . . . I am becoming more contented ; but, if I 
were Queen of England,. I could not be perfectly happy 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 185 

away from you all. But so far as concerns Bernardino 
and myself, we are as happy as can be, and considered 
the model couple of Santiago for domestic happiness. 
Bernardino is universally beloved and respected ; high 
and low speak in his praise. His family, indeed every 
one, treats me with kindness and great consideration. 

They have here the most extravagant and exaggerated 
ideas of my qualifications and accomplishments, and as to 
energy and activity I am a wonder ! You may be sure 
neither Bernardino nor any of his family will undeceive 
them 

I received dear Nell's letter, in answer to some ques- 
tions of conscience 

Ever, dear parents, your devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



It will be necessary to explain the society, which Jenny 
calls her " Altar Society," as Dr. Dickson described it, 
on a recent visit to New York, after her death. 

Finding the altar robbed by the revolutionists, and the 
church in ruin, the people languishing for the sacra- 
ments, and no fit place for Him who is the treasure of our 
tabernacle ; her soul found no rest until she had an- 
swered its call to make reparation, and to restore to 
"God the things that are God's." 

Possessed of uncommon executive ability and zeal, she 
17 



186 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

organized a society which she called "The Sisters of 
Mary." First inviting the leading ladies of the town to 
her house, she laid before them her plans and ideas 
(which she had well matured before they came), and con- 
sulted with them, asking their opinion upon, and coopera- 
tion in the good work. Obtaining their approbation and 
readiness to follow her, Jenny accepted their appointment, 
and became president of the society. When they had 
assembled, she addressed them, and appealed to them to 
undertake the good work for the honor and glory of God 
earnestly, and promised to do her part. She found most 
willing and fervent response to her appeal. In a short 
time, to use the words of Dr. Dickson, " every family in 
Santiago became members of this society," and then 
Jenny invited rich and poor for miles around to unite 
with them. 

It was by this time only necessary to learn that Nina 
Jenny " (Lady Jenny) desired to establish an association, 
and the country people flocked into the town, to go to her 
house and have the need and the rules explained to them. 
The explanation often involved days of instruction, and 
in this way she taught the poor people simple truths of 
Christian life and doctrine before unknown to them. 

It is our desire to give a faithful account of the few 
years which Jenny spent in Santiago (because we believe 
she was prepared for it by God, and called there to do an 
especial work). And we could not be true to that desire, 
were we to leave out the shadows in the picture of that 
strangely unfortunate country. Alas ! we falter at the 
threshold, and with trembling hand and troubled heart 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 187 

expose to view the cause of this deplorable ignorance 
among the lower classes, and the falling away from faith 
and duty, of the educated. And this is a Christian land, 
where the ruins of magnificent edifices for the worship of 
God show that they have been a people who loved " the 
beauty of holiness." Why, then, did Jenny call the coun- 
try almost " God-forsaken " ? And why this almost super- 
human effort on her part, necessary to revive faith and 
the practice of religious duties ? Because they who 
should have taken care of the souls entrusted to them 
had gone astray, and were betraying their Lord and 
Master for less than "thirty pieces of silver." 

It is a well-known fact to Protestant travellers, and a 
wound in the heart of the Catholic world, that the Catho- 
lic priesthood in this part of the world, and in the West 
Indian Islands, scandalize the faithful. Thank God that 
amid the glowing brightness of the shining examples of 
piety and self-sacrificing zeal elsewhere in the priesthood, 
this deep, dark shadow fills the Christian world with 
gloom, and, if it were possible, their tears would blot it 
out. 

Jenny anticipated this trial. Her husband had frankly 
told it to her before she left home. It pained him to do 
so, because he knew what she would suffer without the 
consolations of her holy faith. But she was incited to 
warmer zeal, and more activity in deed in consequence, 
when she went among them, and, like the good Samaritan, 
began to bind up the wounds of the soul-sick with a truly 
Christian charity. The same holy charity made her for- 
bear to pass judgment upon the already self-condemned. 



188 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

who had fallen, alas ! from so high a place. Let us, too, 
leave to God the judgment, while we bitterly abhor and 
condemn the sin. 

" Why are these men permitted to remain in the 
Church ? " is often asked by Protestant and Catholic. 
Because they are sustained by a government which will 
not acknowledge Papal authority. If the archbishop or 
bishop were to remove them to-morrow, if need be, 
by the bayonet they would be reinstated; hence these 
scandals ! 

In the Catholic Church it is a consoling truth that the 
fountain's flow of grace cannot be impeded by the short- 
comings of the priest by whom the sacraments are ad- 
ministered. Grace reaches the soul of the worthy re- 
ceiver, whether the sacrament be given by holy hands or 
hands defiled, — else, alas ! so frail is poor human nature, 
might not many famish for want of the bread of life ? 



Dangerous Illness — Confession, Marriage, Baptism, Communion, in one Night — 
Wonderful Recovery — Jenny a Nurse — Altar Society — Sunday School, the 
First in Santiago — Grand Serenade to la Nina Jenna — Improvisator. 

Santiago, April itfk, 1864. 

My darling Nell, — I must tell you 

what scenes I have passed through during the last two 
weeks. Our churches are still closed, and the laws 
against those priests who attempt to officiate severe. A 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 189 

] esuit priest, passing through Panama, said two masses 
in private houses, and was fined fifty dollars. A priest 
who married some persons already married by the civil 
law, and who secretly baptized some children, was thrown 
into prison, and only released on giving bail. 

The present vicar-general has given permission to a 
priest here, who has not sworn, to administer all the 
sacraments and say mass in private houses, in three dif- 
ferent parishes. This, of course, is a great comfort to us. 
But now to my story. 

There is a family here of careless Catholics. You may 
judge how careless, when two members (ladies) were 
married by the civil law, not thinking it worth while to 
have it in the Church ! (I will not mention their names 
to you.) With one of the family I was very intimate ; to 
the others I had never spoken. 

During Holy Week I heard that one of these ladies, — 
Dona B — , who lives quite near us, was very ill ; but, as 
she had not called upon me, I merely sent word through 
my servant to inquire how she was, not supposing it to 
be a serious illness. On Easter Monday we heard that 
she was dying. Fermina and Julianna immediately pre- 
pared to go and see her. I inquired whether she had 
sent for a priest. " Oh, no," they said ; " no one would 
dare to mention it, for the family were very proud, and 
would be offended if such a thing were mentioned, for 
they would say it would kill her." I begged them at 
least to speak to her aunt, with whom we were very inti- 
mate j and Fermina promised to do so. In about an 

hour the aunt sent for me, to know whether I would go 
17* 



190 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

and see her ; she thought I might influence the family. 
I consented, though with a trembling heart, to do so. 

When I reached the house, I found the poor sick lady 
(a beautiful woman about my age) evidently dying. She 
had an abscess in the breast, which she had refused to 
allow to be operated upon, and the poisonous matter had 
entered the circulation, and was gradually clogging up 
the heart. She was perfectly conscious, and spoke 
clearly, but was very low. Her husband and sister sat 
by her, and Dr. Dickson was in constant attendance. I 
passed into the next room, and begged her husband 
(whom I had never seen before) to send privately for a 
priest. The aunt had already spoken to him, and he 
agreed instantly. But the priest was some miles from 
here, and it was doubtful whether he could be found. I 
then got several persons who were in the house to pray 
earnestly with me to the Sacred Heart for her ; and I 
begged her aunt to try and get her sister to tell her the 
danger she was in. They made several attempts to 
break it to her, but failed ; in fact, they dared not do 
more. I then called the doctor out of her room, and 
begged him to tell her. He said he agreed with me, it 
was a terrible thing to die without being aware of the 
danger, but that she was excessively timid, that her 
heart was already much affected, and he really feared the 
effect of such an announcement would kill her ! I im- 
plored him to break it to her gradually, and not let her 
die as she was. He said he would try and have the 
courage to do so. Meanwhile I sent a message to 
Amelia, who was still by her sister, to say I wished to 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 191 

speak to her ; but she did not come. I then went into the 
room, trusting to my influence as a friend, and at the same 
time as a foreigner. I almost forcibly carried her from 
the bedside, insisting she needed rest, if only for a few mo- 
ments. When I had induced her to go into the other room, 
I first consoled her, and then asked her if she had told her 
sister of her danger. "Oh, no," she said, " she could not 
do such a thing ; her sister was very good, and God 
would take care of her." I then urged her to speak to 
her, — knowing how careless she had been, — and after 
a few minutes she answered, " Well, Jenny, go in and tell 
her." " O Amelia," I replied, " I could not do so, — I 
have never spoken to her. Her husband and family might 
think it an intrusion." " No, go in and tell her," was 
her only reply. I hesitated a moment ; then, summoning 
up all my courage, entered the room, and took my seat 
beside her. Taking her hand in mine, I told her, as 
gently as I could, her situation. You may judge my 
fear. The doctor (a Protestant) and all her family were 
present. If by chance she died then, they would all say 
I killed her ! She received it, however, very calmly. 
The priest came. I prepared her as well as I could for 
confession. I asked her husband to be married by the 
Church. She confessed, was anointed, married, and 
her baby baptized, and was better instead of worse ! 
Her husband asked to have mass said in her room, that 
she might receive holy communion. About one in the 
morning we sent for the priest ; and, with the doors 
closed, we had mass said ! The priest heard my con- 
fession, and I had the happiness of going to holy com- 



192 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

munion. You can't tell how solemn it was. About 
twenty were present. Afraid at every sound that some one 
had come to apprehend the priest, the mass was said 
without any bell, lest we should be betrayed, and the poor 
lady, for whom it was said, almost dying. Dr. Dickson, 
who was present, said we might easily imagine we were 
living in the time of Cromwell. 

I never was more thankful for being a good nurse than 
now ; for after I had accomplished all I wanted in a relig- 
ious point of view, I was so glad to be of real help in 
taking care of Dona B. I stayed with her constantly, 
and, instead of any anger or discontent in the family 
against me, they could not express their gratitude, and 
the sick lady conceived such an affection for me, that she 
could not bear to have me out of her sight. The next 
night after the scene I have described she seemed struck 
with death, gave all her directions calmly, exhorted her 
sister to be a good Catholic, and entreated me to take 
charge of her little baby when it would be old enough to 
be taught. She was constantly praying, and indeed was 
in such excellent disposition, that I felt almost as the 
pirate did towards the Jew after he had declared himself a 
Christian ; but she suddenly became better. I am sure 
the whole family will henceforth be good and edifying 
Catholics. Dr. Dickson told me that these scenes brought 
back to his mind the days he spent in a Catholic college. 
He, though a Protestant, was the first to attribute the cure 
to the grace of the sacraments, and said it was one of the 
most wonderful cures he ever saw. I presume our Lord 
permitted it, because they have the dreadful habit of fre- 



JENNT C. WHITE DEL BAL. 193 

quently allowing people to die without the sacrament, 
for fear of killing them if they were told their danger. 

I thing my angel-child was praying for me ; for last 
Easter Tuesday I was giving him up to God, and this 
year he obtained for me the favor of holy communion. 

Two or three of us (ladies) concluded to have mass 
at midnight, at the house of one of the ladies ; but the 
day before the time I was so sick I dared not go out at 
night, and they insisted it should be said at our house. I 
had one of my rooms arranged as a little chapel, and at 
midnight about twenty were present, — eleven going to 
holy communion. We had the priest baptize here about 
one hundred children the past few weeks. I am sure my 
darling child has been praying for me. The very day a 
year ago I was watching him the last time, I had mass in 
my room, and I hung over the altar the cross of flowers 
dear Emily Paterson gave me. I hope he prayed for her 
too. 

I tell you all these things, dear Nell, because you ex- 
pected to have been with me, and to show you how far I 
have been allowed to carry out our plans ; also to ask you 
to pray that I may have light to continue. 

The Sunday school we thought so much of is now fairly 
under way. When I had been here about three months 
I spoke to the family about our custom of having Sunday- 
schools, and the idea pleased them very much. I did not 
feel sufficiently acquainted to propose establishing one, 
nor did I feel sufficiently confident of my ability to give 
the instructions in Spanish. So I collected the servants 
of my house and those of Don Santiago (my father-in- 



194 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

law), and with Fermina's daughter and a child, a friend, 
made another little class. I thought, if this were known 
and met approval, the ladies would ask me to admit their 
children and servants, and in this way the suggestion 
would come from them and not me. It turned out just 
as I expected, — every Sunday I have new scholars. I 
have now about forty-five, # besides several who come with 
their children, as it is quite a curiosity here, being the 
first Sunday school ever established in this country. . . . 
A good many people are now preparing for confession, 

who have not been in years The country 

people are really good, many of their sins being the result 

of ignorance 

I arrange my instruction in this way : first we say the 
rosary, the children in turn taking the lead, so that all 
may learn to say it. Then I take the catechism, and ex- 
plain the different lessons the classes are to recite, so 
that all may feel that they are taught by me, as I am still a 
novelty. I then read to them from some sermons I have 
selected, giving them advice on their ordinary duties. 
The different classes then recite their lessons. I have 
two classes, — one who have made their first communion, 
another who have not, but can read. Fermina teaches a 
class their commandments ; Julianna teaches catechism to 
those who cannot read. Dona Bernarda, a very pious lady, 
teaches a class of those who do not know their prayers ; 
and Leopold La Barriere, a cousin of Bernardino's 
about dear Tom's age, — an excellent fellow, — teaches 

* Four months after establishing the school. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 195 

a class of boys. I have nearly as many boys as girls. 
As soon as the lessons are recited, the singing com- 
mences, much to the delight of all the children ! They 
already sing Alleluia with all the spirit in the world. 
Each one who attends and listens with attention receives 
a ticket ; and, as soon as they have twelve, I give them 
a miraculous medal or a picture. This makes them very 
anxious to attend regularly. 

Darling Nell, I had the happiness of receiving holy 
communion. Inez' mother-in-law had mass at her house 
and sent word to me. It would amuse you to see us 
stealing out of the house, at three in the morning, like 
house-breakers, — startled at every sound of a dog bark- 
ing, lest we would be discovered. Do, dear Nell, con- 
tinue to pray for us. 

I sent you the names of forty persons who are members 
of the Sacred Heart Society # we established here, and I 
send you many more in this. If their names cannot be 
inscribed at the convent, please send them to St. Francis 
Xavier's Church. 

April 27th. — No chance for sending my letter yet. A 
package of letters from home came to me while I was 
presiding at a meeting I had called of the ladies of San- 
tiago, for the purpose of establishing an altar-society on 
a grand scale. It was the first thing of the kind ever 
attempted here ; but this time I cannot give you the par- 
ticulars. All I can say, is, I missed you, darling. Thank 
God, it was considered a great success ! 

* Jenny established it. 



196 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

[The following letter, describing the homage paid to 
Jenny when the churches were re-opened, will show how 
much was due to her for the preservation of faith during 
the dark hours, when the lay presence, in the sacrament, 
of God himself, was withdrawn from the people. Their 
public acknowledgment of her zeal and piety she relates 
as modestly as possible to her nun sister.] 

May ist. — We have been almost wild with joy be- 
cause the rumor has reached us that the law regarding 
priests has been repealed ! The joy-bells rang three 
hours ; Te Deum sung in the church ; firing of guns ; 
and in the evening the city band played in the plaza and 
principal streets. 

I was serenaded by the band in the evening, and at 
about one in the morning by a band of singers with guitar 
accompaniment, with one improvisator at their head, who 
sang some verses in honor of ' la Nina Jenna ' ! 

We are waiting to have an official announcement be- 
fore we can have a public mass ; but this morning early 
quite a number had mass said, and many went to com- 
munion. It was a little strange that our first mass in 
church was said at a side altar of the Sacred Heart. I 
am sure all your prayers are helping us. 

I am ashamed to send you this scrawl; but I have 
no time just now I can call my own. Between the Altar 
Society, Sacred Heart Society, English lessons to Juli- 
anna, and despatching men to the cotton plantation, 
where Bernardino is now, with things needed there, I 
have not much leisure. I am now writing standing by 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 197 

the table, interrupted every moment, for I am superin- 
tending packing a cargo for Las Coletas, the man who is 
packing it constantly asking me questions. 



Cotton Speculation — Great Hopes — Great meeting called to repair the 
Churches — Country People flock into Santiago to join an Altar Society. 



Santiago, April z%th^ 1864. 10.30, p. m. 

My darling Sister Rhoda, — I received all your 
letters ; and when I finish letters from home, I feel like 
the children who, when a story is told them, exclaim, 
" Oh, tell me more about that ! " 

Dear father's and mother's edifying faith and patience 
will, I think, be rewarded in this world as well as the 
next. I wrote to Bernardino, and told him I had so 
much good news to tell him I hardly knew where to 
begin 

We are not so far behind the age as you imagine. We 
have, within the circuit of a few miles, four or five cotton 
gins in active operation. One in Santiago, belonging to, 
a young merchant, who bought all the cotton the country 
people could bring him, paying them a much higher price 
than they ever received before. This has so stimulated 
them, that all the people are planting cotton. This will 
be a great godsend to the people here. It will enable 
the haciendas to keep their cattle without selling them, 

18 



198 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

until better prices are given. I am very glad ; for I could 
not bear to see Bernardino selling cattle, that ought to 
bring twenty, thirty, and sixty dollars, for fifteen or 
twenty. There are but few haciendas compared to the 
population ; therefore it is considered the best business 
here. Many, on account of the war, have sold and gone 
away. The haciendas are expensive to keep up. An 
overseer and many men are employed 

It is a beautiful sight to see on one of these haciendas 
all the cattle at the peculiar cry of the herdsmen collect- 
ing together. Each hacienda has thousands of cattle. I 
have seen but little of country life here. Bernardino has 
been constantly engaged at Las Coletas on the cotton 
plantation. I cannot go till there is a comfortable house 
there ; the rancho of their mandador is the only one there 
now. Bernardino says I will be charmed with the place ; 
that there is a beautiful orange grove, and the trees filled 
with monkeys and parrots 

Why, Rho, what a beautiful " welcome home " you all 
gave father and mother on their return home from Wash- 
ington ! * Ah, dear Rho ! how blessed you are in being 
where you can show affection for our dear parents ! Never 
will it be possible for us to do enough for them. . . . 

You no doubt imagine me as having time for every- 
thing in this fair and easy-going country ; but it is quite 
the contrary. I am as busy as a bee from morning until 
night, and although there may be no great results achieved, 



* The house was dressed in wreaths of evergreen and flowers, with trans- 
parencies of " Welcome Home," " One hundred thousand Welcomes." 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 199 

my time is just as fully occupied as though I were doing 
wonders. 

I must stop writing, for I have to call on a sick lady, 
and to visit Inez and Mrs. Fabrega to-day, to consult 
with them about a great meeting we are to have, please 
God, next Sunday in the church. I do not know but 
some of the people will think I wish to raise a revolution 
here. But it is a very innocent project, — merely to raise 
funds to keep the church in order, and if possible to re- 
pair or rebuild if necessary a very fine one, which is 
closed now because it needed so many repairs. You see 
I am at my old trade of begging again. I wonder if I 
will ever arrive at a state of insensibility on the subject. 
I do dislike it. I have had from Inez and my family here 
most active co-operation, and ought not to complain. . . . 

With love to dear John, and the dear ones all, 
Your devoted sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



My darling Sister Nett, — I wrote to dear father 
and to Mr. Greeley on public matters here. I wish Mr. 
Greeley to understand this present government. It is not 
what has been represented by the New York papers. . . 

Your interesting letter, dear Nett, I cannot answer to- 
day. The country people are coming from the different 
villages, to become members of the Altar Society, and 



200 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

they all expect me to talk and explain to them all about 

it. The labor is immensely worse than to get up a fair ! 

The servant has just told me people are waiting to 

see me 

Your devoted sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

P. S. — I really do not know what I have written. 



LETTER TO REVEREND B. O'REILLY. 

Hermanas de Maria Society — A Sunday school, — the First on the Isthmus. 

Santiago, May 2$th, 1864. 

Reverend dear Father and Uncle, — By letters 
received from my dear mother, I hear, dear father, that 
you had the kindness to write to me ; but, unfortunately 
for us, your letter, which would have been so welcome, 
was lost on its way from New York. I cannot tell you 
what a bitter disappointment this is to me, for, deprived 
as we are of all spiritual comforts, your words of sympathy 
and advice would have been as cool water to the weary 
traveller in the desert. I trust in charity you will write 
again. 

I can scarcely give you an idea of what our religious 
desolation has been here. I say has been, because since 
Easter Monday we have ventured to have some masses, 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 201 

at first at midnight, and now, owing to a rumor, which 
seems well-founded, that the law which prevented priests 
from officiating is abolished, we have mass a little more 
publicly, though each day fearing it may be the last on which 
we will enjoy this blessed privilege, as we are constantly 
disturbed by reports that the persecution of the priests 
has recommenced. I trust in God, however, that our 
new president (Murillo) is in favor of the abrogation of 
the obnoxious law. 

I feel now quite settled and at home in Santiago, al- 
though my heart still yearns for home and friends, and 
not the least for dear St. Francis Xavier's Church, where 
it now appears to me they are enjoying the luxury of re- 
ligious consolation in its fullest extent. The kindness 
with which I was received and have been treated by my 
husband's family, and indeed every one in the town, high 
and low, is beyond description. 

Owing to our religious trials, and the fact that many 
are in mourning for friends lost in the last revolution, or 
have friends in exile, the city has been very sad. I, too, 
for several months after my arrival, suffered from a pain- 
ful and tedious illness, — not, however, owing to the 
climate, which seems to agree with me, thank God ! 

You see, dear father, we have had this year, as well as 

last, our share of the cross. Earnest as was my interest 

in this people before I lived among them, it is greater 

now, if possible. Could you see, dear father, how little 

is needed to make them saints, it would make your heart 

ache to find that this little is not done. The consequence 

is, these poor, ignorant people are living in a great state 
18* 



202 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

of immorality, and many of them falling into superstitions 
and idolatry ! They long for instruction, and listen 
with the most eager interest and devout attention to any 
given them. They would fairly idolize a priest who would 
devote himself with zeal to their teaching. I have al- 
ready mentioned to them my favorite project of sending 
for a priest, and it has been hailed with delight. . . . 

Inez Arosemena, — a cousin of my husband's, — who 
was educated at the Sacred Heart, Manhattanville, and 
is also a child of Mary, is living here. She is married to 
the nephew of the gentleman who will present this letter 
to you. She and her husband's family, and my family 
here, are most active in all good works, and have set me 
a most edifying example by their earnest energy in all 
works of charity. They merely need a suggestion of what 
is done in other countries, to enter into it heart and soul. 
They have been a great comfort to me here. 

We have established an Altar Society on quite a large 
scale. The members inscribe themselves in the books 
of the society, agreeing to pay a small sum monthly. It 
is not alone that the people will thus learn to support the 
Church by voluntary contribution, but it awakens an in- 
terest among them in Church matters generally. I can 
already notice a favorable change in some of the ladies, 
who formerly were quite careless about attending mass, 
and now as officials of the Altar Society are becoming 
quite devout. We call the society " Hermanas de Maria." 
We selected the name first to put it under the especial 
protection of the Blessed Virgin. The poor country 
people are delighted with their name (Sisters of Mary), 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 203 

and come in numbers to bring their alms to me. . . . 
We have also a large Sunday school, — the first, I believe, 
ever established on the Isthmus. We have also several 
week-day classes, preparing for first confession and com- 
munion. 

There is a great deal to do here. I hope, dear father, 
you will pray for me, that I may have the grace and per- 
severance to do my part. 

I hope, dear father, you will write often, and give me 
your good counsel and advice. You cannot imagine what 
a great trial it is to be so entirely deprived of the advice 
of a director. 

It is strange that I, who from a child was excessively 
scrupulous, am now placed where I not only must decide 
for myself, but must also frequently do so for others. 

I earnestly beg your prayers for this people and for 
myself. .... Thanking you for the letter I did 
not receive, and begging you to write again, I am your 
deeply grateful child in Christ, 

And attached niece, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



First Sunday School ever established in Santiago — Jenny loses some important 
Aid — A Family leaves for Europe. 

Santiago, June ^d, 1864. 

My dear darling Mother, — I was rejoiced to re- 
ceive a large package of letters from home yesterday, 



204 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

among them one from dear Father O'Reilly. The sewing- 
machine arrived safely; it is the first one introduced 
here 

There was no use in trying to ward off homesickness 
after reading of your happy gathering.* But I must 
look forward with hope to my return home, and our 
blessed reunion. ..... 

I was about writing to father that I hoped he was doing 
all in his power to support Lincoln. The Radicals can- 
not yet elect their candidate, but may elect Lincoln. Pray 
do not allow Copperheads to win. The majority are 
seldom bold, earnest, patriotic men. I do not know 
what Bernardino would say to me for electioneering for 
Lincoln. It may be you think I am flattered by his 
answering my letters ; but I speak without " any regard 
to the hat." 

I have written a long letter to Father O'Reilly, this 
mail, which I have sent to Paris, and must content myself 
with a short one to you, my dear mother, this time. 

Bernardino has first cousins in Paris ; the description 
they give of balls and entertainments given by the 
empress, which they attended, are like fairy dreams. 
Some of the family who have gone to Europe will remain 
permanently, and have sent for their mother and brothers. 
We feel sorry to have them go. They are the pillars of 
the Church here. Leopold, one of the sons, about Tom's 
age, is my right-hand man in my Sunday school, and takes 

* A family reunion, — parents, grandparents, brothers, and sisters from 
Detroit and Binghamton. Never again can such happiness be granted. 
The chain is severed, — several links broken in the circle. 



JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 205 

charge of the church. I think he will be a priest. His 
brother, who is in France, is going to be a priest, and 
both his sisters nuns. 

I write to Jenny Rigney this mail. 

Mv dear parents' devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

Jenny simply alludes here to the assistance young 
Leopold affords her in her Sunday school. She found 
the children of the poor in the city and the neighboring 
villages in a state of deplorable ignorance of the simplest 
truths of Christianity. 

When the parents of these children came to pay their 
respectful homage to the wife of " Don Bernardino," and 
to gratify their curiosity, — to see, with their own eyes, 
the "American lady," — Jenny received them with great 
kindness, and soon her house became thronged from day 
to day. Each one returning home to the village with ac- 
counts of the goodness of " La Senora," induced others 
to make the visit. In a short time she became acquainted 
with them ; and, gaining their confidence, it was easy for 
her to learn their great need of religious instruction. She 
proposed a Sunday school to the ladies of Santiago, till 
then unheard of; and not only proposed it, but, as we 
see, in nine months after her arrival, had established one 
which was drawing many of the young people of the 
highest class into works of active charity, — thus benefit- 
ing rich and poor alike. Charity blesseth those who give 
and those who receive, and what greater charity than 
teaching divine truths ? 



206 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

We have been told that Jenny's patience and zeal in 
teaching these poor children were sometimes well tried ; 
but they were most edifying. They would come to her 
house, during the week, frequently at most inappropriate 
times, when she was occupied in matters of great impor- 
tance, which scarcely allowed rest sufficient for the pres- 
ervation of her health. But no matter how annoying the 
intrusion might be, they were always received kindly, 
and, if possible, instruction was given them. When re- 
monstrated with by some of her family, " They have come 
so far," or " Poor creatures, who needs my time more 
than the^ ? " would be her excuse. 



June 23d, the Anniversary of Jenny's Departure from New York — Great Joy 
in Santiago — Churches publicly opened again — Repeal of the Law oblig- 
ing Priests to take an Oath — Blessed Sacrament again on the Altar — 
Lamp of the Sanctuary again relighted — Jenny chief Directress in the 
Celebrations 

Santiago, June 23d, 1864. 

My beloved Parents, — This ever-to-be-remembered 
day has come round again ; and although I have strug- 
gled hard to repress all memories (at least sad ones) of 
the past, I find myself going over and over, in my mind, 
all the particulars of that (to me) dreadful day. 

Every act and word and almost thought of that time 
is so impressed upon my memory, that, in spite of my 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 207 

efforts to the contrary, those heart-rending scenes stand 
out in bold relief, and will be remembered. I am re- 
solved, however, to yield so far as to write these 
thoughts, but will look forward to the brighter scene of 
our reunion. I almost forbid myself the thought; it 
would seem too great happiness ; and yet I find myself 
dwelling on the minutest particulars of my visit home. 
These thoughts will not be controlled. 

June 26th. — My letter has been interrupted by great 
Church festivities and rejoicings. 

A law has been passed in Congress repealing the law 
requiring priests to take the oath, but obliging bishops to 
do so. The oath has been modified, — so it may be that 
they can conscientiously take it. 

Meantime, we are making the most of the present time 
amid solemn rejoicings and festivities. The blessed 
sacrament is once more placed in the church, — the 
sanctuary lamp relighted, after having been nearly a year 
extinguished. On St. Peter's day we are to have another 
celebration 

You, who have not suffered as we have, cannot imagine 
the joy it was to see the blessed sacrament once more. 
. . . . I feel so protected now that we have the sac- 
ramental presence of our Lord among us. Do, dear 
parents, obtain prayers that he may never leave us again. 

I have been chief directress (with many able assist- 
ants) of this celebration. I have entirely gone back to 
my old trade of begging, much to the amusement (?) of 
the good Santiagenos, and I am carrying on a thriving 
business. 



208 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

I wish I could give you a description of the festival to- 
day, although perhaps you would not enjoy it as I did. 
In the first place, the pillars of the church, and between 
the pillars, were dressed in palms, woven by the country 
people into a variety of figures curiously and tastefully 
executed. The altar was decorated in an effective man- 
ner. A French carpenter and I put our heads together, 
and arranged it in an effective style. Filled with lights 
and flowers, it looked beautifully. The joy-bells were 
rung, guns fired, and drums and fifes played all the morn- 
ing. 

Now comes the South American part of the ceremony. 
The mass is heard with the greatest reverence and re- 
spect. At the elevation and the renewing of the blessed 
sacrament in the remonstrance, drums beat, a salute is 
fired, and bells of both churches are rung. Perhaps it 
would not strike you as devotional, but it was most im- 
pressive and imposing to me. 

After this mass a Te Deum was sung, and we had an 
exposition of the blessed sacrament until afternoon, when 
there was a procession. The principal gentlemen of the 
town carried the palio over the blessed sacrament, and 
the entire congregation followed, each bearing a lighted 
candle. 

The houses which the procession would pass were dec- 
orated. It is the custom to attend these religious cele- 
brations almost in ball dress (in full dress). When I 
first heard this, it seemed to me I would not like it, but 
when I came to dress, and saw the others dressing in the 
best and richest they had, — even the poor trying to have 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 209 

something new, because they were to accompany the 
blessed sacrament, — it entirely took away the idea of 
vanity in the motive, and seemed want of respect to do 

otherwise 

I have occupied all my time in telling you of our cele- 
bration ; but our hearts are so full of it, we can hardly 
think of anything else. . . . * . 

Ever my too fondly loved parents' devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

P. S. — Bernardino sends much love. He is nearly 
worked to death on his cotton plantation. He cannot 
trust his overseer alone, the business is so new j but his 
health is good. His absence from home, which occurs 
often now, is a great trial to us both. But God grant us 
success, if it is his will. 



"Misa de Sacramento " — Altars on the Way-side— Distinguished Gentlemen 
carry the Canopy — Novena to the Sacred Heart — Fourth of July Celebration 
in Jenny's Honor — Her American Dinner — Fireworks — Evening Party — 
Crowd in the Street. 



Santiago, July 7th, 1864. 
My darling Nell, — I sent off an unsatisfactory let- 
ter to dear father and mother, on dear Rhoda's wedding 
anniversary (2d) 

I have been so occupied with many things lately, I 
19 



210 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

have not been able to indulge in writing home as fre- 
quently as heretofore Last week we were 

very busy with our Church festivals, which were most im- 
pressive. On Saint Peter's day we had a high mass, what 
they call " Misa de Sacramento." At the offertory, the 
veil which hangs before the remonstrance is raised, and 
the priest and people adore, while all the bells of both 
churches are rung, drums beat, and guns are fired. At 
the sanctus and elevation the same takes place, with the 
exception of the lifting of the veil, which remains raised 
during the mass. 

For us, who have passed nearly a year with our bells 
silent, and our altars desolate, the effect was thrilling. 
After mass a procession through the principal streets, 
the priest holding the remonstrance as when giving bene- 
diction. 

All the houses were decorated with drapery and greens, 
and some houses had altars arranged in the portals 
(porches). At each of these the procession paused, the 
blessed sacrament was placed upon the altar, and prayers 
said. 

The rich canopy over the blessed sacrament was car- 
ried by the most distinguished gentlemen of the town ; 
and every one in the procession carried a lighted taper. 

Certainly there is something very different in the effect 
of the sun here and at home. The gentlemen walked 
bareheaded, and the ladies, only veiled out of respect 
to the blessed sacrament, do not even cover their heads 
by a parasol. The sun blistered my face and neck, and 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 211 

yet I had not the shadow of a headache. They never 
heard of a case of sun-stroke here. 

For these celebrations I dressed the altar, and it was 
much liked ; the background was sky-blue silk and my 
rich lace dress, which made beautiful drapery, with an 
abundance of flowers. The canopy was formed of an 
elegant shawl, and the sides were enclosed with rich 
curtains. 

As I was following in the procession, it seemed as 
though we were almost living in that time when our Sa- 
viour was present in His sacred humanity. When I 
thought of the crowds who then followed him, and how 
he never passed without performing many miracles, I 
could not but hope he would not pass us by without 
marking his way by miracles, — ■ miracles wrought at 
least in the hearts of the people. 

Our hearts were not as light as they would have been 
had we been sure this would last. We are still in doubt 
whether the present law will be considered good, or at 
least bearable, by the Pope. 

We had a novena* to the Sacred Heart in the church, 
mass said every day, and, for this place, quite a number 
went to holy communion. It concluded the feast of the 
Sacred Heart. We are now saying the novena of the 
nine Tuesdays.f 

And now to our temporal celebrations. The Fourth 

* This novena (or nine days' prayer) to the Sacred Heart of Jesus was 
proposed and conducted by Jenny, we are told. 

f This holy custom of the nine Tuesdays was unknown there till intro- 
duced by Jenny. 



212 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

of July we gave a family dinner-party, at which, in honor 
of the day, I introduced some American dishes, — capon 
k l'Americaine, and lemon meringue pie ! 

As my knowledge of cooking is principally theoretical, 
I feared the result ; but I came out grandly ! I kept 
half a dozen servants busy, however, owing to my inex- 
perience, — they of course attributing the bustle to the 
extreme difficulty of making American dishes ! We drank 
patriotic toasts heartily. We arose in the morning before 
four, and flung to the breeze a large flag from our house. 
Dr. Dickson, who lives next door (the only other Amer- 
ican here), did likewise. The salute was given with 
what they call a camara, which makes a report almost 
equal to a cannon. We startled a number of the inhabi- 
tants, — they thinking it was a revolution ! I had a hand- 
some little flag hung in the parlor, and the guarda brisas 
ornamented with the American colors. 

We had wine all day for those who called. In the 
evening we had the band play, and fireworks, punch, 
and refreshments. The house, portal, and street were 
crowded, A gentleman here surprised us with a large 
balloon he had made, and which went off beautifully. 

After the entertainments outside, we sang in the par- 
lor national and other songs, some of the gentlemen 
joining in the choruses. We broke up about twelve, feel- 
ing we had kept " the Fourth " as it had never been kept 
in Santiago. 

What a splendid affair dear Rhoda's opera (gotten up 
to celebrate dear Grandmother Waterman's visit) must 
have been ! It made me homesick to think of it. I 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 213 

could imagine it all. How admirably Loo wrote the 
libretto ! I am so glad to hear that Rhoda and Netty 
are making such progress in instrumental and vocal 
music. 

I must tell you something very cunning about Inez 
Fabrega's baby. He is only ten months old, and when 
he sees a crucifix or statue he immediately strikes his 
breast most devoutly, saying, " Santo, santo, santo ! " 

Inez is going next Monday to spend three months at 
the cotton plantation. I shall miss her very much. It 
may be her mother-in-law will go also, which I shall re- 
gret very much. She makes a great pet of me. Fermina 
and her children have gone to the country for a month. 
Miro has gone to his hacienda ; so Julianna and I will 
be entirely alone. Bernardino will not be back till 
the 25th. 

Will mother let Loo come to me ? I hardly dare think 
of her and Blanche's coming, for fear I shall be disap- 
pointed. How happy I shall be when I have them 
with me ! * Ask Dr. Whiting to send Dr. Dickson a de- 
scription of Loo's constitution. Although Santiago is 
very quiet now, and changed, yet we can still be very 
happy, and enjoy much together. 

Dear Nell, I send you two hundred and three more 
names of the Sacred Heart. If they can be inscribed in 
the regular Sacred Heart Society, perhaps it would be 
better, as I am afraid I cannot make the generality of 
the people understand offering up their actions, which the 
apostolate requires. For myself, I prefer the latter. I 

* Alas, poor child ! in this she was disappointed. 
19* 



214 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

hope you will get all the nuns and good sisters you can 
to pray for those whose names I send you. I think I 
can already see the effects of the devotion here. 

Remember me to all the good nuns who will inquire 
for me. 

Ever, dearest Nell, your devotedly attached sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Santiago, July 31.S/, 1864. 

My dearest Mother, — I am surprised 

that I have not heard from Father Deluynes, to whom I 
wrote ; and not a line from Father Goetz, on the subject 
of my appeal to them to send us some good priests. . . 
Now any secular priest or Jesuit may come without hav- 
ing to take that objectionable oath. The law suppressing 
religious orders has been abolished. 

Our priest here is one who, in a moment of temptation, 
took the oath ; but he had the grace not to officiate. He 
has been restored by the bishop, on condition that he 
will do public penance, — first confessing and receiving 
communion. He was obliged last Monday, before mass, 
to make a public retractation, kneel before the blessed 
sacrament, and beg pardon of God and of all the people. 
It was very solemn and painful ; but still I thought the 
poor priest no doubt felt happier than he had been for 
many months. Four times he has to make this public 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 215 

retractation and give alms. I understood that he thought 
I was not satisfied with him, and would prefer some one 
else in his place. This made him reserved and unwill- 
ing to co-operate with me in many things of advantage to 
the people. I determined, if possible, to remove the im- 
pression from his mind. 

The day of his reinstatement there was to be grand 
high mass, which, from circumstances, he was obliged to 
postpone till the 15th of August, — the great feast-day of 
the patron saint of Santiago. 

I am preparing a celebration to welcome him back. 
As the angels in heaven are rejoicing, it is very proper 
that we should do so too. Please all pray that he may 
persevere. To-day he visited our Sunday school, and 
promises to give a little sermon to the children every 
Sunday. 

My celebration, though of little consequence, perhaps, 
is costing me a great deal of trouble, for the children 
have never seen anything of the kind. On this account, 
it is more difficult to teach them. There are in all thirty- 
five boys and girls who are to take part in it, — the girls 
dressed in white, ornamented with colored ribbons and 
flowers, with white veils upon their heads ; the boys with 
white pantaloons and black coats, with colored rosettes 
upon their breasts. I am teaching them to sing an 
address to the pastor, in duet ; so you may imagine I 
have my hands full. In the morning I have a rehearsal, 
to teach them the order of procession, etc., in the church ; 
in the afternoon I teach them singing in my own house. 

I have had two banners, made of white satin, trimmed 



216 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

with cherry-colored ribbon. In the centre of one is the 
Sacred Heart ; in the other a beautiful engraving of the 
Sacred Heart of Mary. 

The procession is led by a little boy, nine years old, 
dressed as an angel, followed by two other little angels 
only four years old. Then follow the children, the boys 
carrying the banner of the Sacred Heart, and the girls 
that of the Blessed Virgin. When they have entered the 
church, they are to form in a kind of tableau in front of 
the altar, where they will all hear grand high mass. After 
mass the leading angel will go to the sacristy for the 
priest, and accompany him to his house, preceded by the 
band, and followed by the procession of children and the 
entire congregation. At the door of his house the chil- 
dren will sing a farewell, on leaving him, expressive of 
their pleasure on his reinstatement 

The entire church will be dressed in palms, and the 
ceremonies of the mass will be made as imposing as they 
can be. 

The country people for miles around are coming, for 
you cannot please them more than by a "funcion de 
l'Eglesia," or church feast. I am half crazy with the 
children ; they are so happy, that they are here to ask 
something every hour. 

In my domestic arrangements, I am very busy prepar- 
ing a room for dear Loo and Blanche. I am hoping that 
they are already in Panama. If I could only know ! I 
can't bear to feel so sure and then be disappointed. 

I am looked upon as a great wonder, the way I de- 
spatch matters. My celebrity would be nothing great at 



JENNY 7. WHITE DEL BAL. 217 

home, but here I astonish hem. If you require anything 
done here, it takes so long s, get the people together to 
do it, that, if it is anything a % can do, I generally pre- 
fer doing it myself, to waiting fo.them. For instance, I 
wanted a mattress made, and enga ed a woman to CQ ^ e 
on Monday morning to do it. I wen to masS) rehearsed 
the children till ten, breakfasted, and u some s jj 0D • 
At noon I decided I would cut out the mat\ ss j .■. , 
I could do it myself. It had twelve long sV^ • • , T 
made it, rested half an hour, dined, taught tic ,.. , 
singing, and had visitors all the evening. Besi&» -r , , 
many interruptions, for I am called to see some one. 
half-hour. You know how constant these interrupts „ 
are in our family at home, dear mother; the same fa^ 
attends me here. 

The next morning I waited in vain for my woman to 
come to fill and tack the mattress. I resolved to set my 
own servants to work on it, and superintend it myself. 
At four o'clock it was finished, and looked grandly, 
although I never saw one made before. The mattress- 
maker walked in, a little before dark on Tuesday, and 
could not believe it had been made in so short a time. 
I need not add, these feats of industry have to be per- 
formed in Bernardino's absence. I am afraid he would 
not give me praise for my exertion, he is so careful of my 
health. But, indeed, dear mother, I can only be happy by 
being constantly occupied. 

I am now perfectly at home in the management of a 
house, servants, plantation, etc., and "take to it natu- 
rally." When I have time I will write to you the duties 



218 JENNY C. WHITE BFL BAL. 

of a house-keeper here, they a? so different from one at 

home. We have to keep a great many servants, and I 

think have less comfort th d with fewer at home. 

I am ashamed of thi?etter, but it must go as it is. 

How beautiful the pera must have been that Rho pre- 

d for dear gr? Smother's visit to New York! She 

must describe a vdie dresses worn > and evei T particular. 

Ah i 't make f<ie nomes i c k to think of those pleasures. 

Wl en N J ' Fabrega comes to see me, which is very 

r . £eats herself in my room, and almost always 

«ow, Jenny, tell me something of your family ; " 
says, 

. .ien I tell her of your and dear father's love for one 
an<- J 

..'ner, dearest mother, and all your lessons and exam- 
,:e to us, your children, and the different traits of each 
one of my loved ones at home, and recall our happy, 
united life, and the many scenes, joyous and sad, through 
which we have passed, she often tells me she can scarcely 
sleep that night. Indeed, when I dare to think of these 
things, I say to myself, my loved parents should have one 
consolation, which is the assurance that my husband must 
be good when I am happy with him, so far away from all I 
loved before. That I can ever cease to feel the separa- 
tion is impossible, but that I regret the cause would be 
still less possible ; for few are so blessed as I am in 
having so good and devoted a husband, whom I think the 
best in the world. 

Remember me to every one at home as well as to all 
friends. Why does not Uncle John write ? 
Your loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 219 



Santiago, August 17th, 1864. 

My darling Mother, — I have been 

extremely occupied the past few weeks. I think I never 
in my life have been so hurried, nor worked so hard, as 
I have for the celebration I had on the 15th • for, al- 
though all were willing to help me, still, as they had 
never seen anything just like it, I had to be consulted a 

hundred times a day The children behaved 

beautifully. I gave the concerted signal for their kneel- 
ing and rising, and they attended to it with the greatest 
order. But the angels excited the admiration of every 
one. They heard the whole of mass without even mov- 
ing their heads ! This was still more wonderful, as their 
mothers call them "very wild." 

While the priest was unvesting, the children sung a 
hymn to the Blessed Virgin. The welcome was written 
by me. Rho will be relieved to hear that they were not 
sung to the air "Vive l'Amour." I composed a grand 
solo and chorus for the occasion. 

I expected the angels would have been dressed by 
their mothers ; but, with all I had to do, I was obliged 
to dress the largest angel. They were afraid they 
would not please me, I suppose. His shoes were white 
satin, with brilliants sewed on them. I crossed narrow 
blue ribbon all the way up the leg. The dress, which 
was not very long, was something like a priest's alb, con- 
fined at the waist by a gold belt, from which was sus- 
pended a beautiful gold rosary. He wore a kind of cloak 



220 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

of light-blue silk barege, worked with gold thread, the 
sleeves looped up with gold bands, with a cluster of bril- 
liants in the centre. The crown I made like the one 
dear Aunt Mary Ann Griffin made for us for the opera 
of Kenilworth, and ornamented it with beautiful bril- 
liants, jewels, and pearls. The wings were made by 
a gentleman, cousin of Don Diego. They were golden 
wings ; the feathers were cut and arranged most beauti- 
fully, — all the plumage being gold, the inside slightly 
tinted with blue. All the angels glittered with precious 
stones. They looked beautifully. The priest had a col- 
lation prepared for the thirty-five children, which they 
enjoyed highly. Wine and refreshments were offered to 
every one at his house, and chica for the crowd outside. 

The country people from far and near came to attend 
the feast, and were perfectly delighted. They could not 
express their gratitude to me for having given them such 
a "grand funcion," as they called it. 

In the evening there were fireworks and a balloon, and 
the common people had a ball ; and in all directions over 
the town the country people had their dances and singing, 
with guitar. Several cried when they saw the children 
escorting the priest, accompanied by a band of music, to 
his house ; they said it was so touching, — and indeed 
it was. 

I was repaid. I showed the priest that I was friendly 
to him, and that I had never meditated deposing him. 
Spaniards, with all their goodness and warmth of heart, 
are extremely sensitive, and one must have the wisdom 
of the serpent not to wound them. The priest seems en- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 221 

tirely convinced of his mistake, and is now extremely 
friendly. He thanked me, and appreciated the good 
feeling I had encouraged and strengthened towards him, 
and prayed that God might reward me.* 

I can hardly wait to hear if dear Loo and Blanche are 
in Panama. Dr. Dickson will bring the news to me in a 
few days, please God. 

I am a little weak, but not injured by this fatigue. You 
must all pray daily for me. Tell darling Nell I leave my 
need in her hands. She must ask all the nuns to pray 
that I may live to be reunited to you all. 

Give to each and all, all the loving messages my heart 
dictates, not forgetting most particularly my dear Grand- 
mother Waterman, who will, I hope, pay me the promised 

visit, f 

Your loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

P. S. — Bernardino loves you all as much as his own 
family, and is quite as homesick as I am. 



Santiago, August lyh, 1864. 

My darling Mother, — I am now writing while my 
head is rather confused, for the whole family, except my- 
self, servants included, are down with an extraordinary 

* How wisely Jenny acted to return good for evil, and thus turn the 
bitter waters into a sweet fountain of charity ! 
t Mrs. Waterman died soon after, October 1st. 
20 



222 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

sickness for this climate, — a real influenza. The regular 
" Tyler grip " ! I am kept busy attending the sick, giving 
medicine to those in the first stages, and strength and 
comfort to the convalescing in the shape of quinine, egg- 
nog, and hot punches. I am also with new servants to 
be trained. 

I often think, mother, how you and father would laugh 
to see me ordering in Spanish these easy-going, lazy, black 
and Indian servants. My little Indian girl is as lazy as 
she can be ; but she is neat, and her poor mother is so 
earnest in her entreaties that I should keep her, that I 
cannot bear to send her back to the ignorance and desti- 
tution from which I took her ; particularly as the child 
takes as naturally to the refinements of civilized life as 
though she had never known any other. She could not 
bless herself when she came to me, but she is quite in- 
clined to be a devotee now. She came to me on St. 
John's day (which is a day of great festivity here, — even 
the poorest have an extra dinner), and said, " Senora, I want 
to fast for St. John." She had fasted several days in Lent, 
and I had explained to her how pleasing such acts of self- 
denial were to God ; but I had no idea she had so practi- 
cal a belief in its efficacy. 

The people here are naturally inclined to corporal mor- 
tifications. Many fast once or twice a month all the year 
round. You may judge I do not shine in this particular, 
for I am unable to fast at all, and Bernardino asserted his 
authority most firmly, and, with all the decision dear father 
used with you, mother, on this point, forbade my fasting 
even in Lent. I obeyed ! 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 223 

August 29th. ... I was called away ; Fermina was 
very ill ; her influenza took a bad turn, and since the 
25 th I have been constantly with her and other sick 
people. 

I am expecting Bernardino home from the cotton 
plantation to-day. If we do not succeed it will be a very 
great disappointment, for we are sacrificing every comfort 
to it. Even hard-working business men know little of the 
difficulties and labor of carrying out such an undertaking 
here. In my eyes the Spaniards have certainly redeemed 
their character for want of business activity, since I have 
lived among them. Their " passada manana " tendencies 
arise from* the utter impossibility of doing things at the 
hour and time you may intend, — owing to your depend- 
ence upon people, and circumstances beyond your control, 
namely, the weather, which is as disastrous to the traveller 
on land, owing to its effects on the roads and streams, as it 
usually is to the seafarer ; and the class of people who 
serve you have no idea of the value of time, and the im- 
portance of keeping appointments, and you cannot teach 
it to them if they have in their veins one drop of Indian 
or negro blood. 

I will try to give you an idea of Bernardino's labors, 
dear mother, and you will then see why we look so 
anxiously for success ; yet we both say, " God's will be 
done," I trust sincerely. In the first place, the plantation 
is about twenty miles from here, reached partly by land 
and partly by sea. The road is very bad, and crossed by 
many streams, which in winter are very difficult to pass, 
and also by two rivers which are extremely dangerous to 



224 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

cross, several persons having been drowned in conse- 
quence of crossing without a guide. In case of a sud- 
den rising of the river the traveller must remain all night 
upon the bank until the water subsides. They chose 
this spot for the plantation because it is a good port, 
because they would not have to make a fence, which 
here is very expensive, and because the land was al- 
ready cleared. No white persons are living anywhere 
in the neighborhood, — the only inhabitants being a very 
ignorant set of negroes. I think they are the most be- 
nighted of whom I ever heard ; but, poor things ! they are 
good-hearted and easily won by kindness, and, if we con- 
tinue there, I hope we may do something towards enlight- 
ening them. They are very fond of us, because they say 
I am very affectionate to them when they come to see 
me. 

Bernardino's rancho is most uncomfortable, and the poor 
fellow must content himself with the plainest food cooked 
in the most ordinary way. The stories of the want of 
cleanliness of these people cast Dr. Johnson's Scotch cook 
completely in the shade. The day he leaves here he must 
rise at three, a. m., and on his return must travel all night, 
— this to save time and avoid the sun. The part of the 
journey on water is in miserable little canoes, that are 
most unsafe. Should the canoe upset, you are doomed at 
least to lose a limb ; for this river is filled with hungry 
crocodiles, who almost leap into the canoe for their 
victims. The plantation is of about one hundred acres \ 
and, as it is so large, Bernardino must from morning till 
night walk over and inspect the work ; for his overseers 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 225 

never before cultivated cotton. He is sure to find a 
blunder committed if he leaves them long. This labor 
is performed with the sun eighty-five or ninety degrees in 
the shade. 

He arrives at home wearied, as you may imagine, to 
stay three or four days, during which time he has to pre- 
pare for his return, and has the house full of men from 
his different haciendas to give him an account of affairs 
there. We have really but little time to enjoy the society 
of one another, but that which w r e steal from sleep, after 
your own fashion, dear mother • and these hours we enjoy 
and prize, I assure you ; for, if it can be, Bernardino says 
he loves me more and more every day. 

Had we known what we must suffer, I fear we should 
not have had courage to go through ; but, if we can prove 
that cotton can be cultivated on a large scale, we may 
safely invest sufficient means to make it very profitable. 
Now it is only an experiment. We cannot say we are 
enjoying life just now ; but we went into this business at 
a time when everything was so dead that we felt glad 
to undertake anything that would be an active business. 

I was very, very much disappointed when darling Loo 
and Blanche did not come. I tried not to be so ; but it 

was in vain. I hope they will even yet come 

Your loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 
20* 



226 JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 



Santiago, September nth, 1864. 

My darling Father, — I write to-day to interest you 
in an act of charity here, although I know how inces- 
santly you are occupied ; but it is of such a pressing char- 
acter that I do not hesitate to add one more to your many 
labors in such a case, dearest father. 

Will you please to send me a strong letter of introduc- 
tion to our minister at Bogota, from yourself, if you are 
acquainted with him, and also from some influential 
friend ? With this letter I will send one from myself, 
asking our minister to present a letter from me to Murillo, 
which I intend, please God, to write to him. The sub- 
ject in which I am interested is the hospital here. There 
is no almshouse nor any institution of the kind. The poor 
here are always sick or infirm. 

Through the piety of former generations almost every 
town has its " Convent of San Juan de Dios," as it is 
called, with a fine chapel attached. Legacies were fre- 
quently left to it, — even here ; although in latter years 
it has been very much neglected ; still it had about 
seven thousand dollars, which were loaned out at a low 
church interest, but yielded an income sufficient, with 
good management, to supply the necessaries of life and 
medical attendance to the unfortunate inmates. But 
under the mortmain law, this has been seized, and the 
poverty and desolation of the place cannot be imagined. 

Even with money it is impossible to give these poor 
creatures any real cure ; for the diseases and deformities 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 227 

in this tropical climate are horrible beyond descrip- 
tion when they attack the lower classes. Only those 
actuated by the pure love of God could devote themselves 
to their care as they should be cared for. In their pres- 
ent state of destitution, their ills are aggravated a hun- 
dred fold. 

The most frightful sores (called leprosy) eat away limb 
after limb. The other day a poor woman arrived who 
gave me a dreadful shock. Where her eyes and nose 
should be, were only unsightly black holes ; an im- 
mense hole, which is a running sore, is her mouth ; and 
thus she is gradually dying, and may live years ! No 
description can give you any idea of the horror of one 
of these hospitals.* All the patients are frightful deform- 
ities. On Saturdays those who are able to walk go 
out to beg. Each one who dies is buried by public 
charity. 

Now, every government is bound to supply some place 
of refuge for such people ; and this one, which pretends 
to be such a model republic, would, I think, be mortified 
to have these things known. They also pretend that 
they will only take the direction of money seized by the 
mortmain law. 

I thought, if I could get my letter properly presented 
to Murillo, he would be induced to order, if not the prin- 
cipal, at least some yearly sum, to be paid to a charitable 

* Dr. Dickson, the physician of Santiago at this time, has since told us 
that Jenny did visit that unfortunate woman when he could not, and ad- 
ministered to her comfort ! What burning charity ! Supernatural love 
for God's poor and afflicted ! 



228 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

society of ladies here, for the purpose of taking care of 
these unfortunate lepers. 

They thought of sending a memorial to him ; but I 
knew of how little avail these are, and it occurred to me 
that what he might disregard from his own people might 
possibly meet with more attention coming from a for- 
eigner, whom he thought of some influence; particularly 
while his remembrances of the United States are fresh 
in his mind. 

If you send me these letters, dear father, you will do 
a great charity ; if we fail, we shall have the satisfaction 
of having tried to do good. Mrs. Fabrega and Inez will 
be pleased if you do ; for they do more than any one else 
here for the hospital. 

I have been remiss, I fear, and would now like to atone 
for my tepidity through you, father. Pray, please that I 
may. I am writing at the rate of a hunt, and must con- 
fine myself in this letter to business. 

Bernardino left this morning for the plantation, to be 
gone three weeks. My heart has been choking me all 
day, and he, poor fellow, feels no better ; but we are 
determined to go to the end of this effort; in fact, we 
cannot well help ourselves. 

Fond, fond love to all. Each of my loved ones is 
remembered as if named. 

Your ever devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

P. S. — We feel in better spirits about the cotton plan- 
tation. Failing, would not be to lose, please God ; but 
our hopes were very high, and may still be realized ! 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 229 



Birthday Celebration — Grand Affair— Palm presented — Verses written — Pro- 
cession — Party — Ball. 

Santiago, September 20th, 1864. 

My darling Parents, — My last letter was written 
August 29th. I was expecting Bernardino from the cot- 
ton plantation that evening; — but to my birthday (Sep- 
tember 1st). 

On the evening of the 31st of August, just at dusk, 
several ladies and gentlemen called in, and I could see 
something was in preparation. 

Large pails full of chica were sent from Don Santiago's, 
to whom a hint had been given, and Bernardino was get- 
ting out brandy and whiskey. Egg-nog was being made 
by the pailful. 

In a few minutes we heard the city band, and, on going 
to the porch, I saw an immense crowd of people coming 
down the street. A large palm, fifteen or twenty feet high, 
woven into beautiful figures, and filled with lights, flowers, 
and flags beautifully disposed, was carried by eight of the 
most respectable colored women, dressed in their best. 

When they reached our door, two little boys and a lit- 
tle girl stepped forward from the crowd, and, after singing 
some very pretty verses in my honor, presented me with 
a beautiful little flag, on which was a heart, in the centre 
of which were written some verses composed for the oc- 
casion. They entered the house and placed the palm in 
the parlor, at which moment fireworks were set off in 
the street in front of the house, and the band played. 



230 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

This crowd was composed principally of the country 
people. They danced many of their Spanish dances for me. 

Egg-nog, whiskey, and chica were distributed in doors 
and out to the crowd in abundance. Indeed, I declare 
all I saw of Bernardino, for twenty-four hours after, was 
while he was going around with a bottle in one hand and 
a glass in the other, asking every one to partake of it, in 
true Irish style. 

They left about ten, in high spirits, giving " Vivas " for 
" La Nina Jenny." 

The next morning, before I was home from mass, the 
caelgos (as birthday presents of a kind of cake orna- 
mented and covered with flowers, baskets of wine, or 
game, are called) began to come in, and I found Julianna 
(Bernardino's sister) giving " the morning " in a kind of 
wine, called mistela, to all the servants, and all who pre- 
sented themselves. All day the presents came in, and 
different members of the family and friends dropped in to 
congratulate me. 

The wine-stand was on the parlor table all day, and I 
offered wine to all who called, as on New Year's day at 
home. 

About twelve a bull was brought to a common in front 
of the house, the chief " toreador " saying, " It shall not 
be said that the young foreign lady had no one to cele- 
brate her birthday with a bull-fight." Bernardino replied, 
"You must always bathe the bull in whiskey." Where- 
upon the bottles began to circulate among the people 
outside, who had collected in crowds to witness the sport. 
In fact, little or no business was done in town on that day. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 231 

As the bull was not fought in the ferocious style of a 
more formal bull-fight, I could look on with a good grace, 
believing that no one would be hurt. These people are 
so dexterous in their management of wild cattle that they 
can take good care of themselves. Still I was quite 
unable to look on with the fearlessness of the Spanish 
ladies, and I think my timidity was as amusing to them 
(the people) as the performance of the toreadors. 
Usually the amusement lasts but a couple of hours ; but 
they became so enthusiastic in their desire to thoroughly 
celebrate my feast that night alone put an end to the 
sports. A wild horse was mounted, and several feats 
performed. The family all dined with me here, and we 
had a grand dinner. 

About eight o'clock, Mrs. Mica Fabrega and Don 
Nicho Facio called, both handsomely dressed, as if 
for a party, and told me that some of my Sunday-school 
pupils were desirous of expressing their appreciation of 
my efforts in their behalf, and had appointed them to 
invite me to meet them at Julianna's new house (which 
is still unoccupied). We accordingly went. When I 
approached the house, I saw it was brilliantly lighted, 
— the whole street crowded ; and, as I entered the house, 
the band struck up a lively air. I was received by Ber- 
nardino's aunt and Mrs. Francisco Fabrega, and a sister- 
in-law of Inez Fabrega. 

They had furnished the house and decorated it with 
flowers. At one side of the room they hung my portrait, 
with a beautiful crown of white flowers above it, and the 
American and Columbian flags gracefully united beneath 



232 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

it. The children — those of the best families — stood 
in line to receive me ; and at the head of the room stood 
a little boy, about ten'years old, and a little girl fourteen, 
each with a beautiful bouquet. 

I was seated under my portrait. All the ladies and 
gentlemen of Santiago were present. The little girl 
arose and delivered an address beautifully, — at the con- 
clusion presenting me with the bouquet. The music 
played a very fine march ; after which the little boy 
delivered his address with all the ease and grace of an 
orator, also presenting me a bouquet at the conclusion. 
In a few words I expressed my thanks for the beautiful 
surprise they had given me; and then Don Nicho con- 
ducted me to the supper-room, where there was an ele- 
gant table spread. In an adjoining room there were all 
kinds of wine in abundance. The table had been pro- 
vided by the ladies, — the wine and music by the 
gentlemen. 

The rest of the evening was spent in dancing and 
singing. Every one seemed in the best of spirits. We 
broke up at about one, a. m. 

You may judge, dear parents, how happy Bernardino 
was, and indeed all the family. To me it was very grat- 
ifying, as it was a voluntary testimony of the affection 
felt, not alone for myself, but for my dear husband ; but 
it made me ashamed of my poor labors here when I saw 
how much they were overrated 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 233 

LETTER TO MRS. WATERMAN. 

Mrs. Waterman's Illness. 

Santiago, October qth, 1864. 

My darling Grandmother, — Letters received to-day 
from my dearest mother give me the sad news that she 
is again watching by your bed of suffering. Although I 
may nofbe able to send this immediately, it is a comfort 
to me to sit down and tell you how deeply I feel for you 
in your illness, and how I long to be near you. 

It is at times such as these I feel most keenly my ab- 
sence from home, and the distance and difficulties of the 
journey seem to increase. Altogether, I bear my exile 
with less patience, or at least have to make a greater 
exertion to be resigned to being so far away from those 
dear ones, to see whom I would give worlds. I could 
fly to you, dear grandmother ! I cannot but envy your 
children, who have the blessed privilege of assisting you. 
Not a day passes that my poor, but fervent, prayers are not 
offered for you. Only last evening Bernardino's sisters 
and I were talking over your promised visit to me, and 
laying plans for its realization. "Absence makes the 
heart grow fonder " is one of the truest proverbs. Noth- 
ing could wound me more than the thought that any one 
of my family could suspect me of coldness or forgetful- 
ness, or that they should cease to remember me as one 
still earnestly interested in everything concerning them. 

October 17th. — Dearest grandmother, I have till now 

had no opportunity to send off my letter. 
21 



234 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

I have passed a most sad and homesick day ; for I re- 
ceived dearest mother's letter of the 23d of September, in 
which she tells me of your dreadful suffering. I wept 
bitterly, dear grandmother. I cannot express what a trial 
it is to me not to be at your side. What would I not give 
to share with mother and Aunt Janett their care of you ? 
I pray God that we may yet meet. Bernardino is ex- 
pected home to-night, after an absence of five weeks. 
He will be greatly grieved to hear of your illness. He 
loves you with all the tenderness and respect of an own 
grandson. 

With the hope that my next letter from home will bring 
me news of your recovery, I will say good-by. 

My ever dear grandmother's devoted child, 

Jenny. 

This letter shows one of the most beautiful traits in a 
woman's character — filial love. Jenny's grandparents 
loved her as an own child. Nearly every summer, since 
her birth, she had been to Binghamton, with her mother 
and the other children, to make a visit to them. Her 
Grandfather White lived almost side by side of General 
Waterman's lovely grounds, and, until the death of Mrs. 
White in 185 1, his large and interesting family circle was 
comparatively unbroken. And here Jenny was a favorite, 
and her visits were hailed as a time of joy to all. The 
most intellectual and refined sought their acquaintance ; 
their circle of friends extended to many States. To these 
princely hospitality was offered with such a grace that 
visitors were made to feel that they brought with them 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 235 

to the house the happiness they enjoyed, and that with 
them much would depart. This family was remarkable 
for intellectual culture and talent, as well as great piety. 
Music, painting, and belles-lettres were the sources of their 
pleasure in their delightful home, while its pervading 
atmosphere was extraordinary love for one another. But, 
one by one, the links of this holy chain were broken. 
This envied home and its harmonious life of love and 
usefulness seemed noiselessly to pass away with the 
spirit of its centre, the beloved mother. 

Ann, the second daughter, had previously become a 
nun of the Visitation Convent, Georgetown. Ellen, the 
eldest, and one of the most accomplished and interesting 
women of her age in this country, became a Sister of 
Charity. Anastasia and Kate, younger, entered the con- 
vent of the Sacred Heart, at Manhattanville. 

After the tearing asunder of these ties that had bound 
them together, and left their home in a few short years 
desolate, it is not surprising that Geraldine, the petted 
youngling of the flock, should have found the world too 
void to satisfy the. yearnings of her soul. She joined her 
sister Ann, and took the veil in the Visitation Convent at 
Georgetown. 

In Europe, two of Mrs. Edward White's sisters were 
distinguished members of religious orders (Sisters of 
Mercy). One, Anna Griffin, the only surviving sister of 
Gerald Griffin, is now Mother Superior of the Convent 
of Mercy, in Youghal, Ireland. It was to her Gerald 
addressed his beautiful lines, "The Sister of Charity." 



236 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



THE SISTER OF CHARITY. 



She once was a lady of honor and wealth ; 
Bright glowed on her features the roses of health ; 
Her vesture was blended of silk and of gold, 
And her motion shook perfume from every fold ; 
Joy revelled around her, — love shone at her side, 
And gay was her smile, as the glance of a bride ; 
And light was her step, in the mirth-sounding hall, 
When she heard of the daughters of Vincent de Paul. 



She felt in her spirit the summons of grace, 
That called her to live for the suffering race ; 
And heedless of pleasure, of comfort, of home, 
Rose quickly like Mary, and answered, " I come ; " 
She put from her person the trappings of pride, 
And passed from her home, with the joy of a bride, 
Nor wept at the threshold, as onward she moved, — 
For her heart was on fire, in the cause it approved. 

III. 

Lost ever to fashion, — to vanity lost, 
That beauty that once was the song and the toast, — 
No more in the ball-room, that figure we meet, 
But gliding at dusk to the wretch's retreat. 
Forgot in the halls is that high-sounding name, 
For the sister of Charity blushes at fame ; 
Forgot are the claims of her riches and birth, 
For she barters for heaven, the glory of earth. 



JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL, 237 

IV. 

Those feet, that to music could gracefully move, 

Now bear her alone on the mission of love ; 

Those hands, that once dangled the perfume and gem, 

Are tending the helpless, or lifted for them ; 

That voice, that once echoed the song of the vain, 

Now whispers relief to the bosom of pain ; 

And the hair, that was shining with diamond and pearl, 

Is wet with the tears of the penitent girl. 



Her down-bed a pallet, — her trinkets a bead, 

Her lustre, — one taper that serves her to read ; 

Her sculpture, — the crucifix nailed by her bed, 

Her paintings, — one print of the thorn-crowned head ; 

Her cushion, — the pavement, that wearies her knees, 

Her music, — the psalm, or the sigh of disease ; 

The delicate lady lives mortified there, 

And the feast is forsaken for fasting and prayer. 

VI. 

Yet not to the service of heart and of mind 

Are the cares of that heaven-minded virgin confined ; 

Like Him whom she loves, to the mansions of grief 

She hastes with the tidings of joy and relief. 

She strengthens the weary, — she comforts the weak, v 

And soft is her voice in the ear of the sick ; 

Where want and affliction on mortals attend, 

The Sister of Charity there is a friend. 

VII. 

Unshrinking where pestilence scatters his breath, 
Like an angel she moves, mid the vapor of death ; 
Where rings the loud musket, and flashes the sword, 
Unfearing she walks, for she follows the Lord. 
21* 



238 JENNY C. WHITE DEL JBAL. 

How sweetly she bends o'er each plague-tainted face 
With looks that are lighted with holiest grace ! 
How kindly she dresses each suffering limb, 
For she sees in the wounded the image of Him ! 



Behold her, ye worldly ! behold her, ye vain ! 

Who shrink from the pathway of virtue and pain ; 

Who yield up to pleasure your nights and your days, 

Forgetful of service, forgetful of praise. 

Ye lazy philosophers, — self-seeking men, — 

Ye fireside philanthropists, great at the pen, 

How stands in the balance your eloquence weighed 

With the life and the deeds of that high-born maid ? 



General Waterman died in 1861, after a short illness. 
And now Jenny turns with full heart to the only surviv- 
ing grandparent in Binghamton, and of the old mansion 
in which she was born, and yearns with the tenderness 
of a last look to revisit " the Nest." But alas ! she will 
learn ere long that it is empty now ! They, its loved and 
honored owners, have finished their work, and have gone 
to rest. The door of those hospitable homes is closed 
forever, and their beautiful grounds, the pride of many 
years, are already trodden only by strangers. This last 
sorrow will come upon our little exile with a crushing 
weight in that far-distant land. 

" Who, who would live always ? I ask not to stay 
Where storm after storm rises dark o'er the way." 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 239 



BIRTHDAY LETTER. 

Santiago, October 7th, 1864. 

My darling "Old Nett," — Before I retire I must 
say a word to you, to let you see that I am, in spirit at 
least, my darling sister, celebrating your birthday. . . . 

Julianna just came to my room to ask me to say to you 
we have remembered your birthday here to day. . . . 

I hope you have heard good news from dear grand- 
mother, and that dear mother is at home again with you 
to-night, where I love to think of you celebrating your 
birthday. With what joy would I not step in and join 
the circle ! 

I trust in God we will one day have that reunion, and 
the pleasure would almost repay me for this separation. 

I have enjoyed with you, Nett, your delightful visit to 
Bordentown with Cousin Emily and Sallie. Give them 
my love. I remember Sallie as a sweet girl ; can you 
not send me her photograph ? 

You, old lady, in the midst of your frolicking, are for- 
getting to write to me. You may think you enjoy letters, 
but you can never know what it is to really do so until 
you are in a strange land. I read and re-read my letters, 
and then lay them upon my table for days. Even to look 
at the superscription is a pleasure to me. Everything 
you can write is of interest to me, from dear father's delib- 
erations in secret council on grand matters of state, to 
the latest smart speech of my little darlings Pamela and 



240 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

Rhoda, for they all here love to hear what is going on in 
the " White family," — as dear John calls us ! . . . 

October ijf/t. — What an anxious time you have all 
had ! Poor mother ! 

Your loving sister, 

Jenny. 



LETTER FROM BERNARDINO. 

News of the death of Mrs. Waterman — Jenny's grief. 

Santiago, November I2tk, 1864. 

My dear Mother, — Yesterday, about ten o'clock, 
while we were at the breakfast-table, your letter of the 
3d of October was handed to us, containing the most 
unwelcome news of the death of your dearly beloved 
mother, Mrs. Waterman. 

What my darling Jenny and I felt at that moment, I 
will not venture to describe. This sad news has inflicted 
a wound that will for years to come remain unhealed. 

I feel that your loss cannot be described. I shall never 
forget the affection and motherly feeling which she enter- 
tained towards me. I lament her departure from among us 
almost as much as her own children. So good and kind 
and generous a mother would be forever mourned, were 
it not that we must submit cheerfully to the will of God, 
and content ourselves with his decisions 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 241 

We can feel that her good works are crowned with hap- 
piness in that world of peace which she has gained by her 
prayers. I invite you, dear mother, to join us in this 
forced resignation that we, as Christians, are bound to 
have, yielding to the mandates of the Almighty God. 

As to my darling Jenny, I cannot describe the effect 
this news has upon her. She will, I trust, soon write 
herself to you of all her mental and physical suffering on 
this occasion 

Through my beloved Jenny, you already know I am 
absent much of the time from home, engaged in cotton- 
raising, and therefore cannot write as often as I would 
like. ..... 

I am not in favor of the Southern confederacy. I hope 
it will soon be put down 

Jenny is liked more and more, and loved by our people. 
Her Sunday school, and her arduous labors for religion 
have made many friends, — so much so that her fame has 
spread in every part of the country. In all matters re- 
lating to the Church she is consulted before any one 
else. Just now a petition is being sent to Lima to the 
bishop, and Jenny's name was asked to have the first 
place upon it. Indeed, she has already done wonders 
here, and yet no one is jealous of her. Her birthday 
celebration was a grand affair, flattering and gratifying 
to us all. Even the children of the town and country 
idolize her. 

As soon as it is known that Jenny is sick, visitors pour 
in, and the house is all the time crowded. Messengers 
are sent from every family several times a day to inquire 



242 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

if she is better. She attends mass daily ; but if by chance 
she is once 'absent, immediately messengers come to in- 
quire what is the matter ! Although she is so popular 
with all classes, yet she is always humble 

Please, dear mother, remember me to each one at 
home, to dear Nell in the convent, and to those dear 
aunts at Georgetown. 

As ever your most affectionate and obedient son, 

Bernardino del Bal. 



LETTER TO REVEREND B. O'REILLY. 

Santiago, December ist> 1864. 

Reverend dear Father, — Your most welcome letter 
has been received 

Indeed, dearest father, could you but know what a 
consolation your words of friendship and advice are to 
Bernardino and myself, — cut off as we are so completely 
from all priestly counsel, — you would feel amply re- 
warded for the sacrifice you make of rest and time, to 
bestow a few words of encouragement on your poor 
children here. 

Words cannot express to you how truly we appreciate 
your kind solicitude for our welfare. We feel most grate- 
ful for your prayers, and only beg that you will, in your 
charity, intercede with our Divine Lord for this people 
and for us 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 243 

This evening, while Bernardino is out on business, 
after waiting in vain to find time to write such a letter 
as I would like, I have seized my pen in a fit of despera- 
tion, determined to send this letter, and not wait till I 
can inflict upon you a regular epistle, equal to any of the 
accounts of the missionaries, published so zealously by 
the American Bible Society. 

My life here is a most active one, and yet I accomplish 
so little, compared to what remains undone, that it seems 
discouraging. Even had I the zeal to do so, it is impos- 
sible for me to devote all my time to spiritual works of 
mercy, for I have my duties to my husband and family, 
which I cannot but consider of primary obligation. I 
must also comply with my duties to society, or I shall lose 
the influence I have. Add to these all the obstacles 
which the devil and human respect oppose to the per- 
formance of these duties, and you can imagine how I feel 
when I see the immense good there can be done, and the 
trifling effect my poor weak efforts produce. 

I feel as though I could plead on bended knees, and 
with tears of earnestness, with those holy souls inflamed 
with apostolic zeal, beseeching them not to pass by un- 
heard this poor land, which should be the land of saints, 
but which, alas ! is plunged in such ignorance that no 
description can give an idea of it. And yet these people 
long for instruction, and idolize those who offer it to 

them, even though they reprove their vices 

In my instructions, on religious matters, to these peo- 
ple, owing to my natural tendency to scrupulosity, I have 
had to be very sure of my answers to questions of con- 



244 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

science. I have been very thoroughly instructed, both 
by mother and my confessors, and gave my advice and 
opinion grounded on their instructions. 

I have prepared, and helped to prepare, many for con- 
fession j but if I had the time, and will, and energy, I 
could have a daily class, there are so many who wish to 
confess. Their ignorance is so great that the labor is an 
arduous one. 

Imagine, dear father, my pain, knowing that many who 
need confession are waiting for me to find time to pre- 
pare them. 

The people here are very zealous, and listen most 
gratefully to the voice of a stranger who they think 
cares for them. On this account I have to be at present 
foremost in every movement, and, if I withdraw, the enter- 
prise or undertaking falls to the ground. 

I am most amusingly popular, but my popularity makes 
me tremble. Our trials are so great, in many ways, that 
they prevent me from enjoying in any vanity of spirit the 
praise with which these people overwhelm me. When the 
heart is tried, the vanities of the world affect it less. But 
I know how subtle is the enemy of our salvation, and I 
depend on your prayers to give me purity of intention in 
the little I do. 

In my dear husband I have one, who by word and ex- 
ample encourages me in every effort ; and this to me is an 
inexpressible comfort. 

I have as yet said little of the proposed missionary 
priest I left in Panama a letter of introduc- 
tion, which our lamented Archbishop Hughes gave me 



JENNY C. WHITS DEL BAL. 245 

when I came from home. It is to be presented to the 
Bishop of Panama when the proper time comes. 

Our Sunday school is doing well. We hope to have a 
grand celebration on Christmas, and mean to have the 
children of the school take parts. I will teach them to 
sing the gloria and a hymn. 

With the alms which the people will give when they 
venerate the infant Jesus, I mean to begin a circulating 
library for the children. 

If, dear father, any of the colleges, convents, and soci- 
eties for the propagation of the faith, for which France is 
so celebrated, could send me some Spanish books, even 
old ones, and common medals and rosaries, it would be 
the greatest act of charity. 

The dearth of reading matter here is terrible. Up to 
this time I have supplied the premiums which I gave to 
induce the children to come and be punctual ; but now the 
school has increased so much, I cannot do it alone, and 
must appeal to the faithful to help me. 

If we can get up a library, I think Inez and I could 
get up some reading classes. 

The ignorance of these children is great, but their 
natural intelligence is beyond all doubt of the very first 
order. The desire to learn is so great that I am very 
anxious to have a priest here who will start a school. 

It is past eleven, dear father, and my head warns me 
that I am trespassing, not only upon your time, but my 
strength. 

You will be alarmed at the prospect of the letter I 
promised you, if this is only an introduction; but like 
22 



JENNY C. WHITE BEL BAL. 

those preachers who prelude their longest discourses by 
declaring they would only say a few brief words (!). I 
have so much to say, I have scribbled on until I have 
sent you too long an epistle, I fear. I would give worlds 
could I but have your wise direction. 

The devotion to the Sacred Heart, which we have es- 
tablished, is spreading rapidly ; also Blessed Margaret 
Mary has many votaries. Perhaps, if we pray hard, you 
yourself may be brought here, dear uncle. Oh, what joy 
to hundreds of poor souls, could that favor be granted ! 

I hope you will pray for our success in our cotton 
plantation, — not for ours alone, but for all ; for. if it suc- 
ceeds it will benefit the Church. The husband of Inez 
had a fine plantation that was destroyed by the cotton 
worm. They have made a vow that all they may make 
over expenses they will give to the rebuilding of the 
church ; and since then it has been improving ! 

Of our temporal trials I say nothing 

In charity, write to us, and do so with all the freedom 
of father, director, counsellor, — reproving as we deserve. 
Your letters are read and re-read ; your words of counsel 
and sympathy fall upon our poor, weary souls as dew 
upon the parched and withering herbage, encouraging us 
to go on, manfully bearing our cross to the end. 

In our family life, thank God ! we enjoy the most 
perfect union, and our Lord has blessed us with great 
cheerfulness of spirit, which enables us to laugh over 
our troubles 

I am sure my angel-child in heaven is now praying for 
you, to repay you for the aid and consolation you gave his 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 247 

poor parents when he was taken from them, I have felt 

that he has been a guardian angel to me 

Most gratefully, your niece, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



[private.] * 

Description of her Spanish House — Its Furniture — Servants in Santiago — 
Amusing Characters — Proposed Circulating Library — Sunday School. 

Santiago, December yh, 1864. 

My own darling Mother, — I commence my letter 
while waiting for Bernardino to come in. He will go 
day after to-morrow to the cotton plantation, to remain 
till Christmas eve. Although our separation is a great 
trial, when we are together we are so happy and cheer- 
ful, I wish you could look in upon us. 

I am more alone now, because Julianna and Miro, with 
whom we have lived, have moved to their new house. 
My next neighbor (Dr. Dickson) and his wife, who are 
invaluable friends to me, have also moved to another 
part of the city. Don Diego Garcia and his sister are 
my opposite neighbors, and are very attentive. 

Could you look in upon my home, I think you would 

* Marked private, because she describes what she thinks will not be of 
especial interest except to her mother. 



248 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

know it was mine, notwithstanding it is so different from 
our houses in the States. It has nothing worth describ- 
ing ; but I will try to give you an idea of it, dear mother, 
for I know to parents everything connected with their 
children is of interest. 

The houses, as you know, are here nearly all of one 
story, with porches or "portals." The kitchen and store- 
rooms are in a back building. The floors are tiled or 
wooden. From the porch, which is wide, you enter the 
parlor, in the middle of the house, by wide double doors. 
This parlor is about twenty-five feet square. On the 
right and left double-doors open into rooms on either 
side of the parlor. Directly in the centre, opposite the 
front-door, is a door-way opening into the dining-room, 
but instead of a door, crimson curtains are hung to divide 
it from the parlor. Above this door-way I have a hand- 
some American flag, which I made. On one side of the 
door-way is a mahogany table, at which I am now writing. 
On this I have a handsome lamp, a number of hand- 
somely bound volumes, album, backgammon board, etc., 
and above it dear father's portrait. At the other side of 
this door is a handsome lounge, with sofa-pillows covered 
with a light-blue French material, with stripes of cherry 
and white. Quite patriotic ! Above this lounge hangs 
the picture of the Blessed Virgin, wreathed in flowers I 
made. Chairs, arm-chairs, and Spanish leather chairs com- 
plete the furniture of this room. The room at the right, 
opening also on the porch, is a library ; and although our 
books as yet are only several hundred, they are a choice 
collection of English, French, and Spanish volumes. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 249 

Bernardino has a large table for writing in it, and if you 
look at father's, even to the big dictionary, you will see it. 
At the left of the parlor is my bedroom. Opposite the 
door stands a very handsome marble-top bureau and 
glass, upon which is the pin-cushion Mrs. Wemple gave 
me ; a number of bottles of perfumery and pomade, etc., 
etc. On both sides of this is a stand for a candle ; on 
one is an easel Nett gave Bernardino, with a picture of 
faith upon it ; on the other a similar easel, with your pic- 
ture, dear mother, upon it. On the left of the bureau 
stands my bed, — a handsome one, quite grand, with hand- 
some Spanish pillows and bolster, covered with red satin, 
over which are Swiss muslin pillow-cases, trimmed with 
deep insertion and lace. At the foot of my bed I have a 
sweet little oratory, blue and white. I have fresh roses for 
it all the year round, in this delightful climate. On my 
oratory are many mementos of my home, friends, and 
childhood, which sometimes make my heart swell, while 
at the same time it is pleasant to me to have them before 
me. On the right-hand side of the room is a door-way 
draped in green chintz, which opens into a large back 
room. On the right side of this door-way, in my bedroom, 
stands a table covered with a red table-cover, upon which 
is a clock, my work-basket (old Nett's gift), and sewing 
materials, and near it stands my sewing-machine. On 
the left is a marble-top table, upon which is a lamp and 
some pretty fancy things. Cane-bottom chairs, pictures 
on the wall, and a flag over my bureau, given me by the 

consul, complete the furniture of my room. In the back 

22* 



250 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

room off from mine I have a large old-fashioned bureau, 
washstand, and a hamaca. 

The dining-room is back of the parlor, and a room cor- 
responding with my back room I use as a store-room. 
Although nothing very grand, I assure you our house has 
a most cheerful, happy appearance. 

I often wish I could send you photographs of my ser- 
vants. I wish you could see my cook when she sits at 
the kitchen door resting, always wearing a hat on her 
head. She would make an admirable picture for Darley ; 
particularly when her little boy, a negro of ten, is near 
her. My chambermaid, a large mulatto woman, who 
dresses in the "pollero " of the country, — which is really 
a graceful dress, — wears a gold chain on her neck, and 
ear-rings, gold side-combs, and a large blue long shawl 
(which these people throw most artistically around them). 
She would look quite majestic when she accompanies me 
in the street (which she delights to do), if it were not for 
an enormous hat which these negroes will wear. She 
never lived with any one before, and came fresh from the 
country ; but I have quite civilized her, and am much 
pleased with her. She is like a child, and is much at- 
tached to me. She takes great pride in thinking she has 
the care of me, particularly when Bernardino is away. 
She will most cheerfully rise at any hour of the night if 
I need her. I am considered fortunate, for since the 
emancipation servants are very poor. # 

* It is oftener the fault of the mistress than the servants. One who has 
the art of government can make even bad servants good, when there is not 
positive want of principle. 



JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 251 

My little Indian girl is a cunning little thing, and really 
does a great deal. The servants here are what they call 
" mucha calma," or they are regular Topsies flying around 
in the wildest manner imaginable. Mine are all of the 
" mucha calma " order, which I think far preferable, 
although it is a trial to one's patience sometimes. I have 
made up my mind never to expect anything done quickly 
by them, and in this way live easily. You may judge how 
little the servants do, when for our family of two persons 
I have these three servants, and a boy for Bernardino, and 
our washing given out of the house to be done. 

Your cook generally has a family of four or five you 
are expected to support. Your washerwoman expects 
you to pay her so much a month, and then send her wood 
and soap ; another will iron for you, but you must send 
her starch, and wood, and sperm, and often a table and 
irons. Indeed, everything is done in the most difficult 
way. Then you always pay in advance, and, as they do 
not generally remain long, they very often go off owing 
you. So far I go on smoothly enough. This may all be 
very stupid to you, dear mother, and I know it is very 
bad taste to speak of your servants, but I am anxious you 
should know "how we live." 

Panchita, my little girl, certainly shows that in all 
classes some are born refined. When she was brought 
to me, the only article of wearing apparel she owned was 
a pair of beads. Miro, Julianna's husband, gave her an 
old shirt to come to town in. From the first she liked 
everything of the best. She had only been here a short, 
time, when she asked for cologne, to put in the water to 



252 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

wash her hands, and pomatum for her hair. She is ex- 
ceedingly neat, and in all her ideas is refined. 

December jth. — Dear mother, a courier despatched 
from Panama just brought us the welcome news of Mr. 
Lincoln's re-election ! Dr. Dickson and Bernardino had 
the American flags out, salutes were fired, and the town 
was in quite a state of excitement.* I enclose you a note 
I have written to Mr. Lincoln on the occasion, — a letter 
of congratulation, expressing our pleasure and good 
wishes. 

I am very busy preparing a Sunday school celebration 
for Christmas. If I can carry out my idea, I think it will 
be very pretty. I am going to have the adoration of the 
kings, shepherds, and angels to be represented by the 
children. All the Sunday-school children are to sing a 
gloria and a hymn. The alms given are to be ap- 
propriated to start a circulating library. Without books 
I can do nothing. All the convents and colleges where 
I am acquainted may expect me to beg some of their 
Spanish books away from them, if I can carry this out. 
Please mention this, mother, to dear Miss Mullany and 
to Dr. Anderson. 

I had hoped to write to dear Tom to-day ; but he will 
know that nothing but the impossibility prevents me. I 
am not as well as I would like to be, I have so much 
to do. 

My letter is of no interest to any one but you. You 
desired me to give you details, and I have done so. 

* Entirely in compliment to Jenny. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 253 

All pray for me, and obtain all the prayers you can 
for me. 

Petita is staying with me. She is so like dear Aunt 
Mary Ann that she is a great comfort to me. 

Ever, darling, darling mother and father, 
Your devoted child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Christmas Celebration — Kings— Rich Jewels — Magnificent Dress — Shep- 
herds — Mass — Christmas Hymn. 

Santiago, December 27th, 1864, 
My darling Rho, — A merry Christmas and a happy 
New Year to you, dear John, and your little darlings, and 
to all, all my beloved family and friends. Would that I 
could accompany these wishes in person ! What a meet- 
ing we will have, please God, when I am able to go 
home ! 

A cloud must hang over your Christmas, particularly 
to my darling mother, owing to my dear grandmother's 
death ; but it is easier for you who are united to bear 
these trials than for me so far away. I have not dared 
to write on this subject since I wrote to dear mother on 
the 22d and 23d of last month, and must not now. 

On Christmas eve, while we were dining, my letters 
from home were brought in, — one from dear mother, com- 
menced to you in Washington, Rho ; one from you, and 



254 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

one from dear father, written down town. The person 
who brought them was delighted to be the messenger, 
for he knew no gift could be so acceptable to me Christ- 
mas eve. 

My Christmas celebration passed off grandly ; but, to 
do so, I had to work, I assure you. I had the whole 
direction of everything for three masses, — one at mid- 
night, one at day-dawn, and one at half-past ten, p. m. 
To have the musicians all in order, the men for firing the 
cannon, and for ringing the bells, in time, was a labor in 
itself. But every one was delighted with the arrange- 
ments. 

I enclosed the upper end of the church, taking in the 
main and two side altars, thus forming a very large sanc- 
tuary. In front of the main altar I had a platform 
twenty feet square erected. On this I had a stable made 
of wood, and roofed with woven palms. This was eight 
or nine feet high. In it was a manger filled with straw, 
in which lay a beautiful infant Jesus, having nothing on 
but one of my lace handkerchiefs arranged to look like a 
little shirt. On either side of the manger were statues 
of the Blessed Virgin and St. Joseph. Above the stall 
was an arch ; upon it, "Gloria in excelsis Deo." Above 
this, suspended in mid-air, shone a star. In the niche, 
formed by the arch over the manger, stood a little boy, 
with blue eyes and light hair, beautifully dressed as an 
angel. Although the child stood on a narrow platform, 
or pedestal, which was concealed by the stable, he per- 
formed his part so well, during a long high-mass, that 
manv thought it was a statue. At the door of the stable 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 255 

knelt two little angels. Although little children, only- 
four years old, they behaved beautifully. About a foot 
lower knelt, on one side, the three kings, magi in adora- 
tion, and on the other side three shepherds. 

I had orange-trees filled with oranges, growing round 
the stable. I could not make it winter, and I thought it 
better to have all the glories of the tropics represented. 
The shepherds I dressed in modern style, for the sake of 
effect. They looked pretty well, — full white-knee breeches, 
colored ribbons on their legs and arms, satin shoes, fancy 
hats turned up on one side, with flowers, and gilt crosiers. 
One king wore full Turkish trousers of brown brocade 
satin j a sort of tunic of blue, with gay flowers ; a mantle 
of yellow brocade; gold crown, and jewels. Aquilino, 
who was one of the kings, wore yellow brocade trousers ; 
tunic of brown satin, with yellow trimmings ; mantle deep- 
blue brocade, with white flowers ; crown blue and gold. 
His jewels in his crown, and which he wore on his dress, 
were really Eastern in magnificence. Indeed, the jewels 
of all were very beautiful. The black king wore purple 
brocade trousers ; red tunic, with a gay-colored border ; 
crimson satin mantle ; crown red and gold, jewels, emer- 
alds, and pearls. 

At the left-hand altar mass was said (in this large 
enclosed sanctuary). At the right the Sunday school 
were grouped, and sang at the Gloria, and a hymn to the 
Blessed Virgin at the Offertory. This hymn was written 
for Christmas, and was very touching. After mass the 
priest invited the people to the adoration. Every one 
went up who chose, and left a Christmas offering for 



256 " JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

charity on a plate, which I prepared. Even Dr. Dickson, 
a Protestant, joined in it most cheerfully. Julianna says I 
have the most extraordinary manner of coaxing people 
to be generous 

I have not time to read over my letter ; I am ashamed 
to send it. 

My dear Rho, pray give my best love to all at home, 
with my heartfelt holiday wishes, — do not forget the 
Curtaynes (who have forgotten me), — and to all my inti- 
mate friends ; to Lilla, who must write often ; to all, in- 
deed, who will ask for me. 

Your devoted sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Jenny hears " the Brogue " in Santiago — She is not well. 

Santiago, December 3U/, 1864. 

My darling Father and Mother, — I was obliged 
to send off my letter without 

January 1st. — I had written the above, and was taken 
sick. I am better to-day. Dr. Dickson is an excellent 
physician, and is very attentive, — not only as a physician, 
but from his friendship for Bernardino 

There are quite a number of foreigners passing through 
here all the time now. Yesterday, when they wished to 
move my bed, who should come to help but a regu- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 257 

lar Paddy, and I think his " rich Irish brogue " sounded 
as sweetly in my ear as it did to General Scott, before 
the election. The class of Americans who pass through 
are not generally the most favorable specimens. When 
one is so far from home, it is impossible for you to imag- 
ine what pleasure it is to hear your own language spoken, 
even with the Yankee drawl or brogue. Indeed, I think 
I like to hear it with these peculiarities. 

What an awful, diabolical plot that was of the 25th of 
November ! # . . . . I am not very well, and must 
close. 

Do dear parents, pray for your loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



LETTER FROM BERNARDINO. 

Birth of a Daughter. 

Santiago, January itfh, 1865. 

My dear Father and Mother, — I take great pleas- 
ure in announcing to you that, on the 2d of this month, 
Jenny gave birth to a beautiful little daughter, and to this 
day both are doing well, thank God ! . . . . 

My dear mother, Jenny was very ill, but many attended 

* Sending yellow fever to New York by infected clothing, and burning 
the hotels. 

23 



258 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

her, for every one here desires to do something for her, 
whenever she needs anything 

We have named our little girl Rhoda, after you, mother. 
She looks like Netty and you, dear father. She is a 
strong, healthy little American, very pretty, and re- 
sembles our angel James. 

My darling Jenny joins me in the offering I now make 
to you, my dear parents, of our little Rhoda; and the 
same I extend through you to each member of our family 
in New York and elsewhere. 5 * 

Nothing of especial interest has occurred since my 
loved Jenny wrote to you last. I am sure she gave you 
a full account of her success in her Christmas celebra- 
tion. It was a grand festival, and delighted the people. 

My family wish to be remembered to you and our 
brothers and sister. With great love and respect, dear 
father and mother, 

As ever, your attached son, 

Bernardino del Bal. 



Santiago, February 21st, 1865. 

My darling Sister Loo, — My heart was rejoiced by 
the package of letters from home on Saturday night 
(17th), written by mother at Christmas time, and one 

* A Spanish custom, and a beautiful one. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 259 

written on the eve of the departure, for Washington, of 
the family party (father, mother, Rho, and Nett), — how 
I longed to be one of it ! — and a long letter from Nell. 
I thank you again and again for keeping me informed of 
home matters, by such interesting letters. You cannot 
know what a great pleasure it is to me to receive them. 
The person who has the good fortune to bring them is 
always delighted. He knows my gratitude. 

My servants, except two, left me on account of sickness 
in their families ; and, as these are the last days of the 
carnival, you cannot induce new ones to come until it is 
over, and Lent begins 

I have suffered from severe attacks of neuralgia 
lately, sometimes in my head, and sometimes in my 
stomach. ..... 

March $th. — Unwillingly your letter was laid aside. 
I have not been able to write ; for the little time I have 
felt well enough to do anything, I snatched to attend de- 
votions in the church, which are, at this time, very inter- 
esting, and my sweet little Rhoda takes her share of my 
time. As I have no "aunty" here to descant on her 
charms, I must, contrary to all Spanish etiquette, sound 
her praises myself. I was amused at Bernardino when 
he wrote to mother about her, — there was such a struggle 
between his desire to tell her the truth about the child 
and his Spanish reluctance to praise her himself. She is 
so like my dear little angel James, that it seems as if I 
have seen her before. 

I am going soon to the country to recruit ; so you may 



260 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

imagine me swinging in a hamaca under the orange-trees 
on the banks of a beautiful river. 

To return to little Rhoda. Although only two months 
old, she is very fond of a lively air, and dances merrily to 
a jig ! The country people come in numbers to see her, 
being to them as great a curiosity as a Japanese baby 
would be to us ! When the nurse takes her to walk 
crowds gather around her. She, even as a baby, is very 
graceful. 

March ^th. — My darling Loo, — again interrupted. 
Thank Nell, for her beautiful present of the picture. I 
have a particular devotion to the Mater Dolorosa. Also 
thank her for the Spanish books. 

We have just passed the carnival season. Formerly it 
was a time of universal frolic and amusement. Among 
the common people they formed two parties, — one called 
Spanish, the other Indian. Each party had their flag, 
and elected king and queen, or cacique and queen. 
On pleasant days the queen, handsomely dressed, sallied 
forth with all her court in grand style. The two quarters 
of the town, eastern and western, were under the reign 
of the chosen sovereigns, and were supposed to be hostile 
to one another. They had their mock fights, prisoners 
taken and ransomed at night. They had what they 
called "timas." The people came out with music and 
torches, and went through the street singing, stopping at 
the principal houses, where they danced some of their 
national dances. The houses thus honored were ex- 
pected to offer them wine and brandy. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 261 

This year, on account of the troubles in this country, 
the better classes left this celebration chiefly to the lower 
classes ; but yet they determined to have their " Cocin- 
ada," which is a large dinner-party and ball. It was 
given at Julianna's house,* and they say they had a lively 
time, speeches made, etc., etc. I, being in mourning, did 
not go. During the three last days of the carnival, they 
have the religious devotion of the forty hours' adoration. t 
During these hours of silence, the church looked so peace- 
ful, it did my heart good to enter it. I blessed dear Father 
O'Reilly, for his beautiful Meditations on the Prayer of 
St. Ignatius, " Soul of Christ, sanctify me," which I 
then made use of, and which calmed my soul, and filled 
it with a holy peace. I felt particularly low-spirited in 
these days, yet these moments of rest before the sanctu- 
ary, which last year was so desolate, quite cheered me. 

To-morrow will be dear mother's birthday. Perhaps 
you children will celebrate it by a concert. I commis- 
sion you, darling Loo, to give one of your most loving 
embraces, and a thousand kisses to dear, dear mother, 
for me. How I envy you the privilege ! 

I just stood up to say the Angelus, and little Rhoda 
caught a view of me, and knew me, and began to laugh 

to come to me I am called away, darling 

Loo, and must leave you. With love to all my dear ones 
at home. Your devoted sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

* Bernardino's youngest sister, Mrs. Miro. 

t Prayer and constant adoration before the blessed sacrament on tho 
altar. Some one always in adoration day and night in the church. 
23* 



262 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



Duties of God-parents — " Pronunciamento " — Return and Reception of Don 
Francisco Fabrega — Death of his Mother. 

Santiago, March loth, 1865. 

My darling Mother, — Here it is a 

great compliment to invite you to be god-mother. The 
god-parents and parents of the child, in recognition of the 
spiritual relationship contracted between them, are called 
"compadres," and are always expected to be excellent 
friends. Mr. Garcia honored Bernardino and me by 
inviting us to be sponsors for his youngest child. At 
these christenings the god-parents have to spend a great 
deal, — presents to the child, and to all the younger 
children of the family ; money to the nurse, to the sex- 
ton ; and then you must throw silver in the street, from 
the church to the house. Unfortunately, the poor child 
was taken, and received baptism hurriedly at the house 
one evening. 

March 20th. — Since my last date, we have had a revolu- 
tion ; and the state is once more governed by the whites. 

On Sunday evening, the 12th, we were sitting on the 
porch of a house in the plaza, " accompanying " (as they 
call it) the family of a lady who was very ill. I noticed 
that the city hall was lighted, and a number of gentlemen 
were there ; but thought little of it. Suddenly from the 
building came shouts and cheers, "Viva! Viva!" etc., 
and in a moment men, women, and boys came running 
from all directions. "What is it? " said I. " A revolu- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 263 

tion," replied Inez, who was near. I thought of course it 
was a joke, but, in a moment more, she said, " No ; that is 
a real * pronunciamento.' " 

Every one was in the best of spirits. All who were 
privy to it began to tell what they knew. The band col- 
lected, and music was played in the square, and after- 
wards at the house of the newly made prefecto and judge 
(the latter was Miro). It seems Don Francisco Fabrega 
had arrived in Panama with a few Costa Ricans. Their 
plans were already laid there, and, after a fight of but one 
hour, and with the loss of only seven lives, the new gov- 
ernment was established. It is merely a state revolution, 
as they acknowledge the general government, and have 
named as governor a conservative liberal. 

Great preparations were made for the reception of Don 
Francisco Fabrega, who was expected, after an exile of 
three years. But a sad event put a check to all their 
joys. The hour before he arrived his mother died. The 
people so respected his grief that not a cheer was given, 
nor a sound uttered, as he entered the town. And thus 
he returned after his exile. 

I said, if all revolutions were as lively and pleasant as 
this one, I should feel it quite an improvement on the 
monotony of Santiago to have a little one now and then. 
But Bernardino said, as this was a pronunciamento, " it 
is always lively, for they have it all their own way. But 
wait till we see if it lasts." 

Already some fears are entertained that the negroes 
are arming in some places, and they are beginning to 
levy heavy contributions. 



264 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Thus this poor country is distracted and ruined. God 
grant this party may succeed, for then the offices will 

generally be in the hands of better men 

Many thanks for the welcome given my little darling. 
I wish you could see her. She is a little beauty, though 
" I say it, that should'nt say it." Julianna says she is a 

perfect little lady, — and so she is 

Ever, dear mother, your devoted loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Holy Week in Santiago — Way of the Cross. 

Santiago, April 10th, 1865. 

My darling Nett, — I have had the happiness of 
receiving from Washington letters from dear father and 
mother 

I have received dear Tom's photograph and Pamela's, 
dressed as Mrs. Tom Thumb.* It was beautiful, and 
amused every one here. 

I am waiting with impatience to hear of your enjoy- 
ment in the world of fashion at Washington. Your first 

* The night before Jenny left home, Nettie White dressed Pamela, 
Mrs. Mack's little daughter, as Mrs. Tom Thumb, in order to turn Jenny's 
thoughts from the sadness the last evening home would naturally cause 
her. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 265 

winter there ! You must describe it minutely. I hear 
you were very gay 

With us the ceremonies of Lent have been most inter- 
esting. Two evenings in the week we have the " Way 
of the Cross," in the streets and plaza ; and you have no 
idea how solemn it is. On a platform is carried a statue 
of our Saviour, in purple robes, carrying a cross. All the 
people follow, some carrying lanterns on poles (as you 
see often represented on the stage). The first station is 
said in the church, and the procession then moves on, 
chanting the Stabat Mater, pausing and kneeling while 
the priest reads each station. They recite them so as to 
reach the church again at the last one. 

I can give you no idea of the solemn impressions made 
by this devotion to one who has never seen it before. In 
these still summer nights the moon is so clear it is nearly 
as light as day ; yet, in this soft, silvery light of a tropical 
moon, to see this procession (of women in white veils, 
and men with heads uncovered) move on, — the silence 
only broken by the voices of the chanters of the Stabat 
Mater and the priest reciting slowly the stations and 
prayers that follow, — fills one with devotional emotions, 
and gives a realizing sense of the Passion of our Lord. 
When it passes the houses, every one from within comes 
out and kneels upon the portals, some holding lighted 
candles. On other porches altars are erected for the 
occasion. 

Palm Sunday is celebrated here also. They close one 
side of the plaza, and make a triumphal arch, to celebrate 
our Lord's entry into Jerusalem. 



266 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

All the babies and nurses in town are out, dressed in 
their best. My little Rhoda # went, and looked as wise 
as the oldest of them. I wish you could see her, Nett ! 
She is very fond of music, and tries to sing with me. 
When I sing opera music, she is almost wild with de- 
light. Have I not reason to think she will sing ? 

My piano is yet detained by the bad roads. Have I 
not been tried, so long without it ? When it arrives, it 
will give me new life. 

Thank dear Uncle John for his letter, and give my love 
to them all, Emily, Uncle John, and Lilla. 

I have suffered from neuralgia, but I am better now. 
As soon as Lent is over, I am going to Don Fabrega's 
country-seat, celebrated for its pure air and fine baths. 
There are baths of any temperature you desire, — cold, 
tepid, or very cold. I take the house as long as I desire 
it, but shall only stay a month. I did not go last month, 
as I expected, on account of the revolution. Please 
God, I will not be disappointed this month. 

Love to all my relatives, far away and near, — to my 
dear friends the Curtaynes, Madam Simmons, and so 
many others I think of, but have not time to name 

now 

My darling sister's devotedly attached, 

Jenny 

* Three months old ! 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL JSAL. 267 



Country People flock into Town to see Jenny and her little Baby. 

Santiago, April i$th, 1865. 

My darling Father and Mother. — .... You 
know what a busy time holy week is for me. My attend- 
ance at the ceremonies had to be so arranged as not to 
interfere with little Rhoda's comfort. 

All my friends here are so ready to help me, that I really 
hesitate to express a wish before them, for I know they 
will be sure to gratify me. I am so interrupted by the 
country people coming to see me to-day, that I must give 

up trying to write You would laugh to see 

the crowd of country people coming to town to see me 
and the baby. I get the credit of all everybody does 
here. The other day they said I paid all the expenses of 
holy week repository procession. I did not do half I 
wished, but they really think I did it all 

I have received dear Father O'Reilly's letter. How I 
thank him for it ! . . . . 

Little Rhoda is well. Oh ! if you could only see her, 
my dear parents. 

Your devoted child, 

Jenny. 



268 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 



Good Friday Celebration in Santiago — Holy Thursday— Easter Sunday. 

Santiago, April 20tk, 1865. 

My darling Nell, — You must read my letters written 
home, as if you were there. I cannot bear to think of 
that dear circle as broken. Bernardino still says your 
vocation was here. 

I feel deeply grateful to all the dear nuns for their 
prayers for us. There never was a place that needed aid 
from Heaven more than this. Beg of them not to abate 
their ardor. 

Sometimes when I see so much yet undone, which 
would be accomplished if I had you here with me, I can't 
help feeling inclined to agree with Bernardino, that in 
this poor neglected field you ought to have come to labor ; 
but, my dearest sister, God directed you, and he knows, 
better than we do, what is best. 

On Holy Thursday our repository was beautifully 
dressed ; the cross in the procession was carried by the 
prefecto, and the canopy, by the leading gentlemen of the 
town. When the blessed sacrament was placed in the 
repository, the key of the tabernacle, which was on an 
elegant gold chain, with a magnificent pearl clasp, was 
put upon the neck of the prefecto, to be kept by him 
until the next day. 

The whole town participated in this celebration ; stores 
closed j scarcely a sound heard until after Saturday's 
mass. On Good Friday it was in each house as if a death 
had occurred in it that day. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 269 

After the mass on Holy Thursday was over, the sol- 
diers who attended the mass were placed as sentinels in 
front of the altar, and there remained, relieving one an- 
other in turn all night. We watched with them until 
morning, and I cannot tell you how I enjoyed it. 

The moon shone brightly; the silence of the night was 
only broken by the tread of the sentinels and the low 
voice of prayer. I never meditated with so much devo- 
votion as on that night. The blessed sacrament was 
exposed. It seemed as if that night in Jerusalem we 
were accompanying that sorrowful Mother in her trials, 
and that our prayers must be answered 

The ceremonies on Good Friday are very imposing, 
and suit the disposition of the people. 

A cross is erected on the platform on the main altar, 
upon which is a figure of our Lord. At about eight the 
priest began his sermon, and at its close he called on 
those holy men who had come to take down the body of 
our Lord, to proceed to their task. While they did so, 
he continued his exhortation to the people. The sound 
of the hammer, as they slowly struck the nails from the 
hands and feet, added a force to his words, and the 
dreadful scene of Calvary seemed realized before us. 
The body was then placed in the sepulchre, and the pro- 
cession formed, — first all the country men, and then all 
the country women. The sepulchre followed, accom- 
panied by all the gentlemen of the town. Then followed 
the troops with arms reversed, and the band playing a 
dead march. The palio or canopy was carried without 

the blessed sacrament. Then came all the ladies in 
24 



270 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL,. 

town, dressed in mourning, all carrying lighted candles. 
I taught the ladies and some of the gentlemen to sing a 
Stabat Mater in two parts. We sang it in the procession, 
and they say it sounded beautifully. On Sunday morn- 
ing we had mass before daybreak, and at dawn a proces- 
sion to celebrate the resurrection. 

My darling Nell, a messenger calls for my letter. I 
must close it in haste. Pray for 

Your fond sister 

Jenny. 



State of the Country — Summary Proceedings — Loans from the People — 
Jenny's Music — She is still an Object of Curiosity to country People. 

Santiago, May ist, 1865. 

My darling Father and Mother, — This week I 
have been occupied with many things. My piano ar- 
rived at last. It seemed new life to me to sit down and 
play again. You may judge my joy. Every one in town 
sympathized in my pleasure, as though it were their own. 
We have had very lively evenings since it came. . . . 

Dear John's excellent photograph made me lonesome 
and homesick. What would I not give to be back a 
while in that dear old dining-room ? I try to look on the 
bright side of the picture, and think of our reunion ; but 
I cannot always do so. 

This country is every day becoming worse and worse. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 271 

Although the change produced by the revolution we have 
just had, placed the power, here in Santiago, in the hands 
of gentlemen instead of negroes, they are governed by 
superior officers, some of whom are much the same as 
the former administration. 

As the officials of the former government have not, or 
pretend not to have, funds belonging to the State, the 
first step of this party is to raise a forced loan to carry 
out their measures. This is taken from the few, for they 
do not at first appeal to the lower classes, lest they irri- 
tate them. The mode of collection is as follows : The 
collector arrives in town, and sends notes to A, B, and 
C, informing them that they must lend to the government 
one thousand, two thousand, three thousand, four thou- 
sand, or five thousand dollars ; that if this money is not in 
his hands in six days they will be sent to prison ; that if, 
after three days' imprisonment, the money is not forth- 
coming, their property will be seized and sold for what- 
ever price it will bring ! 

Thus houses, furniture, cattle, everything may be sold, 
and twenty thousand dollars' worth of property sacrificed 
for five thousand dollars ! You remember, in the crisis 
in New York, how hard wealthy men found it to raise 
money on a short notice ; and you may judge how much 
worse it is in a small place like this, where the burden 
of everything falls upon a few. 

The collector is now here, and has given until Saturday 
to pay the money for which he has called. Imagine the 
state of excitement we are in to-day ! Every one says if 
they thought this government would be permanent, they 



272 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

would give cheerfully ; but what they fear is, that in a few 
months the other party may be in power, and then an- 
other loan (!) worse than this will be demanded of the 
same people. 

Manuela made me laugh to-day. She said that all her 
life she has been living under a provisional government, 
and she longs to see the time when they will begin to 
pay back something on their loans. So far she never 
received anything from it. 

Ah well ! we must only hope for the best ; but really 
this government seems like the Irishman's wife, "all 
worse," for which reason, he pleaded, he was entitled to 
a divorce, as he married her " for better or worse." 

My piano is a great source of amusement. I feared I 
had lost from the want of it ; but I found that sing- 
ing opera music, without an accompaniment, was an 
advantage to me. I was forced to sing correctly ; no 
slurring could be concealed by the piano ! The people 
are very enthusiastic about my singing, my opera music 
particularly ; even the country people are delighted with 
it. One old woman, after listening to me, said, " Ah 
Senorita ! this is ■ gloria eterna ' (as they call heaven). 
When you can sing and play this, I am sure you forget 
everything else." 

I was just interrupted by a country woman, who came 
in simply to look at me ! I am still an object of curiosity. 

The baby has a sweet face and winning way. She is 
the pet of the town \ and as to the country people, she 
has a smile for every one of them. I can't tell how I 
long to have you all see her. 



JENNY C. WBITE DEL BAL. 273 

While I am writing, three or four country women are 

gazing at me in wonder and admiration My 

fame far exceeds what I deserve 

Fondest love to every member of my family in New 
York, and elsewhere. ... I fear to lose the mail. 
Your loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

A poor old woman, who had been accustomed to come 
from the country to Jenny's house for alms, was observed 
for a week or more to pass by the house stealthily, with- 
out going in. On being asked why she did so, she said 
she heard the young stranger could do anything she 
wished, and was a witch ; that she did not ride in the air, 
it was hard to convince her. Afterwards she became 
very devoted to " la Nina." 



Anecdotes of Children— Celebration of St. John's Day. 

Santiago, July 14th, 1865. 

My dear Tom and Lou, — I cannot tell 

you what a comfort your letters are to me. When you 
write tell me every little thing of home and friends. Es- 
pecially the account of Rhoda's little darlings is very 
interesting to me. 

Inez' eldest little boy is two years older than little Dodo, 

24* 



274 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

so she takes an especial interest in hearing what I tell 
her of my little nieces. I tell her that St. Bernard is 
going to make a bishop of her little boy, Bernardo, he 
is so pious. He can tell you most of the principal events 
of our Saviour's life ; and the other day, when he saw the 
children preparing for confession, he said, " I will go too." 
"What will you say?" said his mother. "I will say I cry 
a great deal ; I am angry sometimes, and do not give any 
of my coffee to my little brother ; " — thus showing he 
knew what it was. 

The little children here have the idea I am a priest or 
bishop. Don Diego Garcia has a little son, Iquacio, who 
has been brought up by his grandparents, who live in a 
town near here. His mother could not persuade him to 
come home, until he was promised I would ordain him. 
It appears he had heard of me and said, " he wished to 
come to Santiago to have Nina Jenny ordain him." I 
have promised to ordain him, when his theological studies 
are completed. 

I wish you could see your little niece, and I do not 
think you would be ashamed of her. She is very fond of 
Bernardino. Every pleasant day, while the nurse is 
taking her dinner, he walks up and down on the porch 
with her, generally talking to her about her New York 
family ; and it is comical to see the quiet, pleased expres- 
sion with which she listens. 

On St. John's day here there is a great deal of horse- 
racing, and every boy in town is out on horseback, rush- 
ing around the streets at a break-neck pace, and shouting 
as they go, " Viva St. John ! St. John ! " Our street is a 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 275 

favorite resort for them, and it is quite amusing to see 
them. Sometimes three or four abreast, holding hands, 
come racing down the street. Rhoda entered into the 
fun like a real Santiagena, and cheered every horse that 
went by. They brought a little white horse for her, and 
I told Bernardino to put her on and see what she would 
do, — he walking by her, of course. She sat up as straight 
as you please, and immediately laid her hand on the 
pommel. When the horse turned she nearly slipped, 
when, instead of crying or being frightened, she caught 
the pommel under her arm to hold on in that way. 

I have occupied a good share of my letter with Miss 
Rho ; but you must excuse a fond mother. .... 

I must reluctantly say good-by. 

Your loving sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Speaking of the revolution, Jenny writes to her par- 
ents : — 

Santiago, September 24/^, 1865. 

. Since I have learned from the lips of the negroes them- 
selves in the hospital, what their intentions were towards 
Santiago, I have felt that prudence would ever forbid my 
remaining in Santiago during a revolution of this kind. 
Without there being any collusion between them, they all 
say that they came with the promise of " sacking Santiago 



276 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

and doing all they liked, as there they would find plenty 
of money, goods, and pretty ladies." 

It was a perfect miracle that we escaped. For days 
and days they were on the very border of the town, and 
yet most incomprehensibly they seemed to be held back 
by some invisible power. 

We were almost defenceless here. For days, when we 
were hourly expecting them, — knowing them to be very 
near, and that their object was Santiago, — the relief we 
called for from Panama was so long delayed, that we en- 
tirely despaired of its being sent. Still God protected us, 
and did not allow one to put foot within the town until 
they came wounded and prisoners ! 

Though but a few hundred men were engaged on each 
side, the battles were desperate. They say these men 
fire but once, and then charge with bayonet. They load 
with both ball and buckshot, — so the wounds are terrible. 
My time is so constantly occupied with the care of the 
wounded that I really have no time to write. This letter 
I have written almost a line at a time. I do not dare to 
sit up all night to write, on little Rhoda's account, for 
fear of making myself sick. My health is better, thank 
God ! I have been so much better since August, I am 
sure I have the benefit of some good prayers. 

Dr. Dickson is not only an excellent physician, but a 
most kind friend. His care of Julianna was wonderful, 
and I have admired his practice in the hospital. . . . . 

I am sorry to send such unsatisfactory letters. 
Your loving child, 

Jenny. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 277 



Jenny writes : — 

My dear Parents, — The night I received my last 
letters from home, I read them about three o'clock in the 
morning, as they were brought me by my brother-in-law, 
Mr. Miro, who arrived from Panama. I read them while 
listening to every sound, thinking it was the enemy who 
were coming, as that night it was said they were to attack 
us. I had packed all my jewelry and everything of value, 
ready to bury it in the garden, for escape was impossible. 
Nearly all the families had left town, except us. We did 
not, first, because I did not wish to leave ; and, secondly, 
because Julianna lay at the point of death, and could not 
be moved. The more I think of our escape, the more 
miraculous it appears to me. 

The promise to seek first the kingdom of God, and all 
other things shall be added unto it, was verified in our 
case. We had the devotion for the month of May and 
afterwards for the month of the Sacred Heart. We had 
our inscription put over the main altar, " Save, O Lord, 
save thy people ! " We meant it principally in a spiritual 
sense ; but even from temporal ills he saved us. The in- 
scription still remains there, and many have spoken of it. 

I feel being separated from you all as if it were the 
first days after I left home. I never get used to it. I 
think our Lord has sent me the hardest trial I could 
bear, that of being separated from my family. 

This attack upon the town was defeated by the arrival 
of General Olarte, who fought with them before they had 



278 JENNY C. WHITE BEL SAL. 

time to reach the town, and took many of them prisoners. 
The wounded were taken to the hospital in Santiago, for 
which Jenny had obtained favors some time ago. 

She writes : — 

I have the hospital under my charge. I have to 
see to everything, from the beds on which they lie 
to the water which they drink. Mrs. Fabrega and 
Miss Sosa assist me in the care of them. I have four 
nurses from the soldiers, and two women to cook ; but 
intelligent persons, at no price, could be obtained, so we 
have to do much of the nursing, otherwise the men would 
die. Although on a small scale, our hospital experience 
is interesting, which, when I have time, I will relate. 

With all the rest I have to do, there is to be a ball 
given to General Olarte, our deliverer, and we mean to 
have a little company for him. If I only had one of you 
to help me ! 

I trust that in a few weeks I shall have a little breath- 
ing time, and then I can write to each one separately. 
Tell my darling Tom I try to practise regularly. 

I had decided from the ist of August to go to a beauti- 
ful country-seat near. On that very day Julianna was 
taken ill. For ten days I had not my dress off, and re- 
mained with her six weeks, nursing her, because she could 
not bear to have me leave her, though there were many 
others to take care of her. The revolution broke out 
during this time, and now we have the hospital to take 

care of. So it goes 

Ever your devoted child, Jenny. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 279 

In another letter she says : — 

I am not only nurse but sometimes assistant surgeon. 
You would laugh to see me going around in the doctor's 
absence, using the surgical scissors, and dressing a man's 
face whose jaw was shot off. 



[private.] 

Political Difficulties — Town ruined — Cotton Plantation failed — Great Disap- 
pointment — Dark Days. 

Santiago, September 29th, 1865. 

My darling Father and Mother, — Let me, on this 
your wedding anniversary, send you the loving embrace 
and kisses I would so like to give you this morning, my 
own darling, dearly loved parents. May God grant you 
many, many returns of this anniversary in union with all 
your children and grandchildren ! 

Our residence here has become a matter of necessity 
purely, and it is the same case with the few respectable 
families who remain here during this state of revolution. 
. . . . There is no security for life or property. . . 

Business is completely dead With all the 

business energy in the world, we can do nothing, for if 
Bernardino should embark in any business, before he 
could realize any money from it a revolution might come 
and deprive him of everything. Although, compared with 



280 JENNT C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

our rebellion in the States, these revolutions appear small, 
yet they are like an ungoverned mob. The State is small, 
and a few hundred men going through it like raiders can 
put, very justly, the whole community in alarm. Then, too, 
everything becomes personal, — county against county, 
town against town, and even family against family. 

I cannot, by letter, give you an idea of the disorderly 
state of society and government here. 

Bernardino hoped, while forced to live here, to escape 
some of these political ills by being an American citizen. 
. . . . It has been painful to him to have to appear 
to be indifferent to the fate of his country in time of 
danger ; but he was obliged to do so ; for, had he done 
what he lawfully could have done, the ignorant people 
here would have ceased to respect his American citizen- 
ship. Then it may be that he is looked upon with jeal- 
ousy, as a privileged person. All this we have suffered, 
and prefer suffering, to being Columbian citizens. Here 
in Santiago they have denied his right to the protection 
of the American government, and obliged him to pay a 
tax to carry on this detested government. He paid it 
undisputed, but has appealed to the consul at Panama. 

Our safety depends upon our right to the protection of 
our American government; and pray, dear father, do 
something for us at once. # I know I need not say a 
word more, but I feel sorry to add one care more to your 
already heavy burden. Children must, it seems, always 

* Judge White sent letters, from some of the most influential public men 
in the United States, to the consul at Panama, asking him to protect Mr. 
del Bal as an American citizen. 



JENNY C. WHITE BEL SAL. 281 

be a care to parents, even after they have flown away from 
" the Nest." 

If Panama were a consul-generalship, by a little man- 
agement a consular agent (even without salary) could be 
named to Montijo (the nearest port to us), with permis- 
sion for the agent to reside in Santiago. But, even if this 
is not done, a good written assurance from the consul and 
from some one in authority (such as my letter from Mr. 
Lincoln) would be of great use. All this, dear father, I 
leave in your hands. 

Now, dear father, I must tell you confidentially of 
another trial we have had. Bernardino almost lost his 
health, and endangered his life, in his great exertions on 
his cotton plantation, — passing a year of sacrifices, — of 
which by letter I can give you no idea, — all to sink 
thousands, not a cent of which will he ever see again, I 
fear. 

Until these late revolutions, business was quite active 
here, and it had the fame of being a city of aristocracy 
and wealth. These revolutions have completely ruined 
the town, and it is useless now to expect better things, 
except from the aid of a foreign power. The wealthiest 
here have suffered severely. 

Bernardino's father is considered one of the richest 
men in the interior ; has three large haciendas, besides 
cattle in several places, and his house in town, besides 
other property My darling parents, I dis- 
like to pain you by a recital of our trials, but I think it 
right to withhold nothing from such a fond and devoted 

father and mother You may have this as- 

25 



282 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

surance, that, in all these sad times of disappointment, I 
keep up good courage, and let no one feel the effects of 
them. All strangers who visit Santiago are brought to our 
house to pass a pleasant evening ; and, I may say to 
you, I think our house as attractive as any here. 

This disappointment in business is easier to bear than 
many trials which others in married life have to suffer. 
I am so happy in all other respects, that I take this cross 

most cheerfully. 

My dear parents' too fond child, 

Jenny. 



A postscript to the last letter announced that another 
revolution was expected, headed by Mosquera. He is 
endeavoring to become the next president. 

We are told by Mr. La Barriere, a gentlemen from San- 
tiago, of whom Jenny has expressed the highest praise, 
that in all these dark and gloomy days " La Nina Jenny " 
was a bright and cheering star to Santiago, — that she 
sustained all classes : the wealthy by her lovely example 
of cheerfulness and heroic courage, and the common 
people were taught by her to preserve order and learn to 
bear their trials of poverty with patience. 

" She is the mother and angel of Santiago," said this 
gentleman in conversation with Mr. and Mrs. White ; 
" and you must not ask her to leave us yet. We need 
her j and, if she were to leave us, I believe the whole 
town would mourn. I cannot give you an idea of all she 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL JBAL. 283 

has done for us, and is still doing. Her influence is uni- 
versal, and she uses her power with such sweet humility 
that we consider her a saint. Indeed, my dear madam, 
I appreciate your loss of the society of such a daughter ; 
but your consolation must be that God called her to 
Santiago to be our guardian angel, and he has an es- 
pecial mission for her there. She feels it to be so, and is 
contented to remain so long as it is God's will. But I 
will not conceal from you that she has suffered severely 
from homesickness. Hours she has talked to me of her 
' too happy home/ as she called it, and her family she 
loves more than I can tell you. But I do implore you 
not to urge her to leave Santiago. She is now in the 
midst of her fruitful labors." 

" Is she cheerful ? " inquired her mother. 

" Always. Her generosity and charity are unbounded, 
and she forgets herself, to encourage us. Her house is 
always filled with friends, and poor people are alike wel- 
come and claim her time as if they were her family. In- 
deed, I may repeat, she is the mother of Santiago, though 
so young. We cannot repeat all her works since she 
came to us. You are blessed parents ; and do not ask 
your child to leave her work half done." 

Sentiments like these we had heard from others com- 
ing from the Isthmus; and though our hearts were 
severely tried by the separation, and the trials we felt she 
endured, yet we could not but yield to arguments like 
these, and believe that she had a call from God. And 
such conviction enabled us to say, " Thy will be done," 



284 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

while, with tears and suppressed grief, we saw our dear 
child still so far off from our yearning hearts, deprived of 
the presence of her family, which had always seemed so 
necessary to her happiness. 

We thanked God for the love bestowed upon her (the 
stranger), and gave ourselves up to the comforting hope 
that in a little time the joy of a reunion would compen- 
sate for this wearing and protracted "hope deferred," 
which was indeed making us heart-sick. 

Mysterious, indeed, are God's ways ! Among the 
members of the family who have been called away since 
Jenny's departure from home, was a favorite aunt, Eliza 
Waterman, wife of Joshua W. Waterman, with whom 
Jenny had spent a delightful season in Detroit ; and 
a beloved uncle, Charles Eldridge, for whom Jenny 
had a great affection. The news of their death sad- 
dened and grieved her, and filled her with painful ap- 
prehensions 

Then followed news of the death of a favorite uncle, 
John White, to whom Jenny from her infancy was de- 
votedly attached. Bernardino writes that Jenny was 
greatly distressed by this sad news, and had written ; but 
her letters, with many others, during this time of the dis- 
tracted state of the country, were lost. 

Another great sorrow of her heart was the departure 
for Europe and elsewhere of some of the best families of 
Santiago, to whom she had become greatly attached. 
Mrs. Fabrega's loss was an especial pain, she writes to 
her brother Tom. " Dear Mrs. Fabrega just passed our 
door on her way to make some friendly calls, and stepped 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 285 

in to give me a kiss and see little Rhoda. It almost 
breaks my heart to have her go. She leaves on New 
Year's day. Is it not an awful way to begin the year, 
dear Tom ? " 

Mrs. Fabrega had tried to fill the place of Jenny's 
mother, and made her promise to ask her for everything, 
as she would her mother. This estimable and holy wo- 
man, Jenny loved with all her heart, and found a great 
solace in this attachment. But now, it pleased God to 
withdraw from her, to whom he was giving so many spirit- 
ual graces and favors, many consolations. 

While these crosses and others came one after another 
with fearful swiftness, Jenny, so far from yielding to de- 
pression and despair, aroused to a greater mental and 
physical activity, to apply herself to the work of prepar- 
ing for the people the only means of refuge in this storm 
of misfortune, — the church, the ark, the sanctuary, the 
holy altar which infidel revolutionists had destroyed. 
With a zeal which God alone can give, in the midst of all 
the darkness and suffering of this desolated country, she set 
to work to rebuild the church, in order that afflicted souls 
might find a resting-place in the temple of God. And 
now we will let her own letters on the subject speak for 

her success. 

25* 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



LETTER TO THOMAS WHITE, JENNY'S BROTHER. 

Santiago, December 29th, 1865. 

My own dear Tom, — I hope you 

will pray very earnestly that we may succed in rebuilding 
the church here. It is a great labor, but it is such a 
charity. 

Those whose devotion leads them to brave the tortures 
of China, or the horrors of Africa, are supported in the 
trial, because animated by a desire to bring light to those 
who are in darkness ; but how much more dreadful to 
think of the state of those who, having known the truth, 
are living as though they believed it not ! Their account- 
ability is much greater. 

Pray, dear Tom, that Bernardino and I may be di- 
rected to do what we can and ought to do 

To-night there is news of new revolution threatened. 
God help us ! 

A heart full of love and good wishes for the New Year, 
my darling brother. 

From your devoted sister, 

r t 

Jenny. 



JENNY C. WEITE BEL BAL. 287 



Threatened Revolution — National Sports— First Fair held by Ladies in 
South America. 



Santiago, January \%th> 1866. 

My dear Parents, — Several letters from home ; one 
from dear Nell, written in Advent ; your letters of Decem- 
ber 10th, and one from dear Rho, urging me to return 
home. What would I not give to be able to do so ! But 
I have almost become superstitious about attempting to 
leave Santiago. It seems impossible for me to leave, 
even for one night. I have planned, and had many trips 
arranged for me, to go to the country, — many that seemed 
absolutely necessary for my health, — and, just on the point 
of realization, I have been obliged to abandon them for 
grave reasons, generally revolutions. This week I ex- 
pected to have been in the country. I am again disap- 
pointed. 

The last of this month, Don Santiago is getting up for 
my benefit a " feast "at one of his haciendas, that I may 
see the national sports. I tell them they must not whisper 
I am to go, until the night before, or a revolution will take 
place. Two years and a half in the country, and having 
Suffered from severe illness and many anxieties, I feel that 
a little change would be most welcome. What would it 
not be to be home a while. I long for the snow and ice 
of my northern home, as the Switzer longed for his hills. 
Still, every time I indulge in these feelings, it gives me a 
pang of remorse; for there are so many things to be 



288 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

thankful for here, in the great love and kindness I have 
met with, it seems ungrateful to be so homesick still. 

The news of my darling Nett's engagement took me by 
surprise, and gave me both pleasure and sadness, — 
pleasure, because I sympathize with her and George in 
their happiness ; and sadness, because I felt that the 
family are scattering, and that when I return the home 
circle I left will be so changed ! .... I wrote to 
Nett herself. 

My dear parents, could you see how, line by line, I am 
obliged to steal time to write, you would not be surprised 
that I send you such unsatisfactory letters. I cannot call 
one half hour my own. The enclosed letter to my dear 
uncle, Father O'Reilly, I wrote, having given out that, 
unless it was unavoidable, I must not be interrupted. For 
the amusement of it, I kept count of the unavoidable in- 
terruptions, — twenty-one ! 

I am going to have a fair, — the first ever held in 

South America ! 

My dear parents' loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



LETTER TO REVEREND B. O'REILLY. 

Santiago, February 20th , 1866. 

My dear Uncle, — I cannot tell you, 

dear father, all the castles in the air we have built re- 
specting your coming here 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 289 

I have just been paying a visit to one of Don Santiago's 
haciendas, and to a country place of my sister-in-law, 
Julianna. The country is perfectly beautiful. In the 
midst of the Andes, just at the foot of them, on the banks 
of the St. Mary's river, rich in every tropical production, 
lies the hacienda where Julianna and I planned how we 
would add a wing to the house for you, my dear uncle ; 
and that, having permission from the bishop for you to 
say mass in it, you would teach hundreds of these poor 
people in the country around, who are now scarcely 
Christians, and yet have good dispositions and could be 
instructed. Here you would find repose, and, at the 
same time, would be the salvation of thousands ! 

I said frequently, while there in that luxuriously beau- 
tiful place, that, if I had but to think of the present, I 
could be happy leading the quiet, peaceful life I led in 
the country ; but my dear husband and I have but little 
time given us in this world, it appears, to enjoy the 
" dolce far niente " of life. Stern necessity, if not incli- 
nation, impels us onward. God grant it may be upward. 

I have scarcely breathing time, and yet accomplish 
little 

I recommend my father-in-law, Don Santiago, to your 
prayers, dear father. He is growing infirm 

Mosquera is daify expected. It is rumored that he 
comes home a changed man, and it is hoped will repair 
the wrong he has done. He has been very much flat- 
tered by his reception by the emperor, as a relative of 
Eugenie, and can hardly come back as liberal (?) in his 
ideas as he went away. 



290 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



I suffer a good deal from neuralgia, and this must be 
my excuse for the carelessly written letters I send 
home 

Your rooms are ready for you in my house as soon as 
you can come, where you can live in the most perfect re- 
tirement. Can it be that this blessing will be granted to 
Santiago ? Bernardino is anxious to hear that you will 
come. Adieu, my dear uncle. 

Pray for your attached niece, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Departure of many Friends from Santiago — Great Sorrow to Jenny. 

Santiago, June i%th, 1866. 

Beloved Parents, — . . . .• . On account of the 
new postal arrangements, and the distracted state of the 
country, many of my letters have not reached you. . „ 

I am very sad to-day. My most intimate and loved 
friend, Inez Fabrega, and her family, left to-day to go to 
Panama. Mrs. La Barriere and her son, who are the 
pillars of the church here, and my good friends, cousins, 
and neighbors leave for France. This morning, also, the 
bishop, who has been making a visit of ten days, left. 
Imagine how sad I will be to-morrow, — to go to church 
alone, to put away all the altar ornaments used during 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 291 

the bishop's visit \ for the companion still left to me 

(Louisa Sosa), went part way with Inez We 

gave the bishop a party, and he treated us with much dis- 
tinction He asked me if I could not induce 

some good priests to come here, and told me, whatever 
measure I thought would be for the benefit of religion 
here, I had but to name it, and if it were in his power it 
should be carried out. It has been an anxious time to 
me. I was desirous, for the good of the people, that his 
visit should be a pleasant one ; and, thanks to good prayers, 
it passed off pleasantly. . . .- . 

I am too sad to write. . . . Inez was like a sister 
to me. No one can fill her place. Bernardino also 
accompanied the travellers part way, and I am very 

lonely 

My darling parents' loving child, 

Jenny. 



Visit of the Bishop to Santiago — Reception enthusiastic — He leaves the Town 
with Regret. 

Santiago, June 20th, 1866. 

My darling Parents, — The bishop 

has just made us a visit, and I assure you I have scarcely 
had time to breathe. I was much pleased with him. He 
is a very learned man, and in society very agreeable. There 
had been a great quarrel between the Santiaguenos and 



292 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

the bishop, and when his visit was spoken of, the priest 
applied to me to influence the people to give him a good 
reception. 

Had I less courage ; I would have been dismayed at 
the task • for the idea of raising money for an object for 
which, on account of the quarrel, there was no enthusiasm, 
at a time when money is so hard to be obtained, was 
no trifling undertaking. But Bernardino and I were 
determined, please God, not to give up. I cannot tell 
you how much tact and hard work it required to carry out 
our plans. I was encouraged by the prayer dear Nell 
had sent me, of blessed Margaret Mary. If you could 
hear all the particulars, you would see what a miracle 
was wrought for us. 

A great many were very much opposed to the bishop 
formerly, and, even up to the time he was expected, spoke 
publicly in disrespectful terms of him. I could not sleep 
at night, but determined to go ahead ; and you know Ber- 
nardino is not easily put down when he undertakes a 
thing. 

My fingers were certainly blessed, for I made the can- 
opy and covered the prie-dieu, and it was considered a 
triumph of upholstery. I made eight or ten bunches of 
flowers for the altar, and to decorate the supper-table ; 
and they came out beautiful, and yet my paper flowers 
used to look very ugly. 

We sent the list to those we dared for subscription, 
and the money received seemed as though, with manage- 
ment of the best kind, it might be made sufficient. 

The day before the bishop's arrival, the church, thanks 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 293 

to our society of " Hermanas de Maria," looked beauti- 
fully. I must first say that in the Spanish Church there 
are a great many more ceremonies than in ours at home ; 
everything is much more imposing ; a bishop is treated 
with great reverence, and is received with much etiquette, 
as one of the princes of the Church. 

When the day came, it seemed as though the people 
were inspired, for more than a hundred persons went out 
on horseback some five or six miles to meet him. Every 
one was in the best of spirits, and there was a great deal 
of real enthusiasm. We ladies dressed handsomely, and 
went to the entrance of the town to welcome and accom- 
pany him to the church. We had four triumphal arches 
raised in the town. 

On his entering the city, a salute was fired, and the joy- 
bells of both churches were rung. 

He then dismounted, and, putting on his episcopal 
robes, walked to the church under a canopy, held by six 
of the principal gentlemen of the city. The ladies pre- 
ceded him, and he was followed by a guard of honor from 
the barracks. Crowds accompanied him, and the streets 
were lined with people kneeling to receive his blessing as 
he passed. As they passed under each arch, a salute 
was fired. 

Always, during a procession, the joy-bells are rung, and 
there is a Spanish proverb, which says, — 

" One cannot ring the bells, 
And walk in procession too ; " 

but I almost performed that impossibility ; for I left the 
26 



294 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

procession, after receiving the bishop, and, when he ar- 
rived at the church door, I was singing, with a gentleman 
who has a very fine voice, accompanied by the organ, 
" Laudate Dominum," which I had arranged for the oc- 
casion, and which sounded, they say, quite grand ! 

Two bands played in the procession from the cuartel, 
and the city band. A Te Deum was then sung, bene- 
diction of the blessed sacrament followed, and the ser- 
vices closed with the " Laudate," etc., again. The people 
accompanied him to his house, and the crowd then dis- 
persed. 

At about eight o'clock a committee of gentlemen called 
upon him, to ask permission in the name of the " Her- 
manas de Maria," to serenade him, — to which he assented. 
The ladies and gentlemen of the town were all assembled 
at our house, which is almost opposite the priest's home, 
with whom he was staying. We had a surprise-party 
prepared for him. 

As soon as the music of the serenade began, we had 
servants carrying lights and lanterns, and, as if by magic, 
the whole porch of the priest's house was illuminated. 
Servants followed, carrying refreshments, and a very 
handsome table was soon laid out. The ladies and gen- 
tlemen immediately followed, and we had a very pleasant 
evening. Toasts were given, and the whole affair passed 
off admirably. 

The bishop treated Bernardino and myself with almost 
too marked consideration. He said General Olarte had 
already made him acquainted with me. As we left, some 
gentlemen proposed escorting me home with music. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 295 

They did so, and we then invited them in, and I had a 
surprise-party, for they danced until near morning at 
our house. 

But now comes the most miraculous part. The money 
subscribed, which we thought barely sufficient, abundantly 
supplied the table ; and, before leaving, I distributed re- 
freshments to the poor people outside, and yet we left 
many bottles of champagne and fine cordials unopened ! 
But when we went to count the costs, next day, we found 
we had eleven dollars left ! We then, among a few, 
raised some more, and made him a fine present in the 
name of the " Hermanas de Maria." 

I could not bear that he should leave without inviting 
him to our house ; for, although he had many visits to 
pay, he had called on us first, and spent two hours with us. 
So Bernardino and I, after thinking of it, decided to do so. 
We gave him a company, with which he seemed very well 
pleased, and said such evenings were refining to the so- 
ciety of a place. We had singing of all kinds, from the 
operas down to even college songs, — some very agree- 
able conversation, some dancing, and, after he left, they 
danced until two, although we had no music but the piano. 
A man here plays very well on the piano for dancing. 

The next day, though overpowered by all he had to do, 
he called in to see the photographs of all my family ; he 
had not been able to see them well by night, he said. 
He is a learned man, and very eloquent. He preached 
once and sometimes twice a day, and we revelled in his 
sermons. 

Here it is permitted to confirm babies, and they al- 



296 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

ways have a godmother or godfather. The day before 
the bishop left, he called, and, as Rhoda asked his bless- 
ing and kissed his ring, he asked me why I had not had 
her confirmed. I told him I was anxious for her to be 
old enough to understand it ; but he told me not to let 
the opportunity pass, and said, " I wish to be her god- 
father." Accordingly, the next morning, before he left, 
he confirmed her " Rose." So Saint Rose of Lima has 
my child under her care. 

The bishop, in a private conversation we had, has more 
than approved of everything I have done ; and asked me, 
without my saying anything about it, if I could not induce 
two or three good priests to come here as missionaries. 
He says he has twice applied to the Propaganda and to 
the Jesuits, without success. I replied, that, without his 
sanction, I could not make such an application ; and that, 
as I had not met him, I did not know whether it would 
meet his approval. He immediately answered, most 
earnestly : " Whatever you wish to do for the benefit of 
religion here will have my most earnest support ; and 
whether it be this project, or any other, you will have 
my approval. Let us work, and trust in God to accom- 
plish something." 

He then gave me much advice as to the trials I would 
undoubtedly meet with as a reformer, and cited the diffi- 
culties of St. Theresa with the Carmelites, and St. John 
of the Cross with his monks ; that I, in my humble way, 
must not be discouraged by difficulties. I told him he 
was giving me work far beyond my powers, and that, 
even in a very miserable way, I could not think of being 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 297 

a reformer. But what I was truly rejoiced in was to see 
his desire that I should do something, and his earnestness 
to help. 

Everything passed off well, and all unpleasant feeling 
has vanished, and really miraculously. Even those who 
were formerly his enemies were now most pleasant in 
their intercourse with him. 

He had been so badly treated on his last visit, he said 
he never would return ; but now he left with regret. He 
says even the air of the place is different to him. I hope 
this may have been to lead to some providential end. . . 



Ever your loving child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Santiago, July 2d, 1866. 

My darling Parents, — I am very busy attending to 
many things beside my own family and its affairs, but 
cannot let this mail go without a line. 

I received your letters, and my dear uncle's, — Father 
O'Reilly, — by the steamer of the nth of June. I can- 
not tell you how I feel your disappointment in the gold 
mine. Your many anxieties fill my heart with sorrow, 
and far more earnestly do I ask our Lord to grant you 
relief, than I can ask for myself. God's will be done, is 
all I can say. Only by appealing to my feelings as a 
Christian, can I bear the great trial it is to me to be so 

26* 



298 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

little help to you, my beloved parents. But, thank God ! 
we are in a Father's hand, and what he does for us is 
indeed well done. 

I miss Inez and her family very much, — she was such a 
companion for me, and so congenial. She was just like 
an American. But sometimes it seems as though God 
wishes to have us alone here. 

Don Santiago has become very old ; yet he will not ad- 
mit it. Do please ask Nell to obtain some prayers to the 
Sacred Heart for him. He is very fond of me and of 
little Rhoda 

I wish you could see my little darling (eighteen months 
old) as she is playing hide-and-seek with her maid Pan- 
chita, and calling every minute " Mama ooda." She is 
very fond of all your photographs, and is constantly writ- 
ing letters to grandmamma. 

Ever, dear mother and father, 

Your too loving child, 

Jenny. 



LETTER TO REVEREND B. O'REILLY. 

Santiago, July id, 1866. 

Dear Father and Uncle, — I received your most 
welcome letter, my dear uncle, and I cannot tell you 
what a comfort it is to hear from you. 



JENNY C. WRITE BEL J5AL. 299 

I can never thank you enough for your truly fatherly 
care and affection for us, nor express the gratitude we 
feel to you for being such a loving, devoted brother 
to my dear parents, — consoling and encouraging them 
in their trials and difficulties. 

It is impossible for me to-day to write as I wish, and 
give you an idea of our situation and that of this unfor- 
tunate town 

I have written to you, asking you to come to us on a 
visit, and yet feel it such a responsibility that I dare not 
urge it. I have decided to leave it in the Sacred Heart 
of Jesus. For the object (your coming) I have proposed 
to have in the church a solemn novena,* to conclude with 
a high mass and benediction, on the 16th instant. 

I trust our Lord will enlighten you, dear uncle, and 
that your decision may be in our favor. I need not tell 
you with what joy Bernardino and I will welcome you. 
But please decide without thinking of us personally ; for 
your generosity might lead you to sacrifice your own in- 
terests, I might say, only I believe you so disinterested 
that I do not think you have any. 

The bishop here will be delighted if you come, and re- 
grets that we cannot offer you more than we can now. Yet 
a priest will never suffer here from want. A hard life, all 
the trials of an apostle, he must meet ; but also the sweet 
consolation and glorious reward of apostolic suffering 
must be his who comes to give the light of heavenly doc- 
trine to those poor souls who are almost lost. 

* Nine days' prayer. 



300 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

I have written so hurriedly, dear uncle, that I am 
ashamed to send this letter, but you will excuse it. May 
God grant that it may not be long before we will see you 
here among us. Pray much for 

Your affectionate and grateful niece, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



LETTER OF CONGRATULATION. 

Santiago, July 10th, 1866. 

My dear Nett and George, — I hoped to be able to- 
day to express some of the happiness I feel at your mar- 
riage ; but the Panama correspondence brought some let- 
ters of important business, which, in Bernardino's absence, 

I must answer Still the word I send comes 

from the heart of a loving sister, wishing and praying for 
you every blessing which may be received through this 
holy sacrament of matrimony.* .... 

And now, my dear George, that you have taken my pet 
from me, you must allow a sister to remind you that you 
have a great responsibility on your hands, — taking such 
a pet as darling Nett has been. Never forget those 
little attentions which won her love, and which will 

* In the Catholic church matrimony is a sacrament, and those entering 
into it, in a state of grace, receive all the blessings they need for the new 
life. 



JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 301 

keep it. All good husbands in the great acts of their 
lives give no cause of complaint to their wives ; but heart- 
ache is often caused by thoughtless disregard of trifling 
attentions. It has been a great comfort to me, in my 
absence from home and old associations, to have a hus- 
band who is mindful of little acts of devotedness . . 

That you will be happy I doubt not, and that I may ere 
long see you is the prayer of 

Your affectionate sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

It occurred to us to withhold this private letter, fearing 
that it would only interest the parties to whom it was ad- 
dressed ; but the advice to young husbands was too good 
to be given* only to one. And now we beg.leave to add a 
word to young wives. It is equally important that you 
should observe the same care and attention to your hus- 
band which your lover received. The same heartfelt 
greeting ; the little flower or ribbon to please his taste ; 
the same acknowledgment by deed that him, above all 
the world, you desire to please, — and, depend upon it, 
Love will never grow old. Age cannot change it, but 
neglect will. 



302 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



Threatened Invasion — Caucanos arming — Jenny has Novenas in the Church 
and asks for Prayers at Home for Peace. 

Santiago, July 3U/, 1866. 

My dear Parents, — After the arrival of two mails 
with no news from home, except dear father's papers, 
which come regularly, and are a great comfort to me, I 
feel very anxious, because I hear that the cholera has 
appeared in New York. 

Dear mother's and Loo's letters made me very happy ; 
they brought me the welcome news of all well at home, 
including dear Father O'Reilly. But I have thought 
perhaps dear mamma wished to cheer me, and wrote in 
better spirits than she felt. Please always send me the 
truth, the whole truth. It is easier for me to bear the 
truth than to suspect trouble. 

It is nearly twelve o'clock at night, and I write this to 
carry out my principle of neglecting no opportunity of 
allowing you to hear from me, my loved parents, although 
my letters are necessarily a mortification to me. 

I have lately suffered from neuralgia, which at times 
absolutely precludes any mental exertion, and renders a 
physical one a great effort. 

Bernardino is at one of the haciendas, and, if here, 
would scold me for remaining up to-night to write. . • . 

We have rumors again of Caucanos * coming. I trust 

* Neighboring people, who threatened, under bad leaders, to rise and 
destroy Santiago. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 303 

these are mere rumors. Still, it is singular that since 
the peace of Santiago was first disturbed, August has 
always been the month in which the misfortunes have 
come. This August, we hope to have in the church, 
every night, trisagios to the Blessed Trinity,* and some 
high masses for the double motive of thanksgiving to 
God for our miraculous escape and for peace and 
tranquillity. 

They are arming near here. I want you all to storm 
heaven for us. We have such faith in all your prayers, 
and those you obtain for us, that even if we hear those 
savage negroes are coming, we will not fear them, for the 
remembrance of the great and miraculous answer to your 
prayers last year gives us confidence that God did not 
cause us to be spared then to leave us to perish in so 
awful a manner now. I myself do not fear, please God ! 
and I thank him over and over again that I am not timid ; 
for, if I were, my suffering would be great here at times. 
I have hopes that political affairs will settle down 
quietly. 

I must close my letter, although this little line I send 
appears all egotism ; but the reason is, that we, who need 
your spiritual aid as we do, must be egotistical, or you 
may forget to pray for us. Do write to the convents, and 
perhaps they can bring us some rest. 

If I only had the money to send for Father O'Reilly, 
and to send him back at the end of a year, if he wished 

* This was proposed by Jenny for asking God's protection from these 



304 JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 

to go, I would give him no peace until he agreed to 
come. Why, do you think, does not our Lord give me 
millions ? He knows best 

Good-night, my loved parents, and a fond good-night 
to each one of my loved ones, including the darling 
little ones. 

My little angel is fast asleep, and is just the dearest 
little mortal in the world, I think. All the little boys in 
the town are devoted to her, and you would laugh to hear 
one of her little cousins, Mrs. Fabrega's little grandson, 
saying, "Viva Rodita!" "Viva Rodita!" 

I give the last kiss and good-night to my mother, and 
a fond, fond kiss to my dear father, and to all, from 
Your loving child, 

Jenny. 



When Jenny was a child, she always, by consent of the 
other children, received the last good-night kiss every 
night from her mother, and continued to claim it until 
her marriage, and up to the night of her departure from 
home. It was often the subject of merriment among the 
children to steal this privilege from her ; and then, when 
they thought her half asleep, to whisper at her door, 
"I've kissed mother, Jenny." Up she would jump ; and 
when the culprit was gone (who was oftener her brother 
Frank than any one else), would ask at her mother's 
door, " Mamma, did any one kiss you since I said good- 
night ? " — and, if it had been so, would not return till 
she had the last kiss to sleep upon. But her mother 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 305 

often told her, " Never fear, darling ; if they cheat you, I 
will never retire without going to your room last ; " nor 
did she ever forget to do so, no matter what the lateness 
of the hour might be. 



Little Rhoda dangerously ill— Remarkable Precocity— Children ask their Par- 
ents' Blessing at the Angelus. 

Santiago, August 10th, 1866. 

My dearest Mother. — . . . . It is three o'clock 
in the morning. I am sitting by my little Rhoda, who is 
very ill, teething. I noticed yesterday she was not very 
well, and resolved to take care of her myself. At twelve I 
was summoned to the death-bed of a young married lady, 
who died suddenly of fever. Although little Rhoda did 
not appear very sick, I had almost a presentiment that 
something was going to happen, and hastened back as 
quickly as possible. Before dark she was very ill indeed, 
and alarmed me very much. She is out of danger, I hope. 

Do, dear mother, pray, and obtain prayers that she may 
be spared to us, if it be God's will. I cannot tell you 
what a treasure she is to us. She is the merriest little 
creature in the world, — a perfect sunbeam in the house ; 
and not only the family, from Don Santiago to the ser- 
vants idolize her, but even strangers are obliged to love 
and pet her. She is very polite : as soon as visitors come 
in she insists that they shall take off their things, and 
27 



306 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

when they are seated, she inquires as well as she is able 
for the members of their family who are at home. (Re- 
member she is only nineteen months old. She said mamma 
and papa at four months.) She is not at all distant, and 
takes people's hearts by storm. She is crazily fond of 
dancing, and reminds me of Pamela at her age. She has 
inherited her Grandfather White's fondness for uniting the 
family at prayers. When she sees me at my prayers, she 
runs immediately and brings in Bernardino, the family, 
and servants, and I am often surprised by having my con- 
gregation assembled, when I had not intended it, and she 
one of the most devout attendants. 

Here, all the children, at the Angelus, come to their 
parents and ask their blessing, making at the same time 
a short ejaculation, in honor of the blessed sacrament. 
The parents then bless them, and give their hand to them 
to kiss.* 

Although she could not say all the words, this she has 
been able to do, since she was eight months old. The 
other day I saw her very gravely teaching the cook's baby, 
four months younger than herself, to give " Bendito," as 
they call it. She made the baby clasp her hands, and I 
heard her saying, with a most serious face, " Ah ! Maria 
Bendito ! " 

Another day she heard the clanking of the chains of 
the prisoners as they passed through the street. She im- 
mediately said, " Ah ! mamma, money presas " (prisoners), 



* Beautiful and holy custom, calculated to inspire both the love of God 
and of parents ! 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 307 

signing to the drawer where I kept money, in order that 
I would give them alms. In the same way she comes 
to me when the hospital poor come on Saturdays for 
their alms. 

I am a very foolish mother, — am I not ? But I, and all 
the family enjoy so much the anecdotes you gave us of 
dear Rhoda's children, that I thought these little things 
might not be uninteresting to you, dear father and mother. 
Indeed, my heart is so full of her to night, I can't write or 

think of anything else Ask dear Father 

O'Reilly to remember us in his prayers 

In this month we have been threatened with a state, 
national, and departmental revolution, either one of which 
would depress business ; so you may imagine how un- 
willing Bernardino is to risk much in any business which 
is liable to be wrecked in a political disturbance. . . 

My love to Mrs. Whiting and the doctor, and to all my 
dear, dear friends, not one of whom is forgotten. 

Your loving child, 

Jenny. 



Revolution in Chiriqui — Devotion in the Church to avert the same Calamity in 
Santiago. 

Santiago, August 20th, 1866. 
My own darling Nell, — Your birthday (nth) 
passed without my being able to write to you, for my lit- 



3Ub JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

tie Rhoda was so sick I could only write a hurried line 
to dear mother ; but, my darling, I need not tell you how 
constantly you are in my thoughts. You and your life, 
which seems to me so peaceful a one, are the subject not 
only of my thoughts, but my poor prayers, that each year 
may find you happier, and as having earned new gems in 
your eternal crown. 

Again the mail day finds me hurried (when am I not ?), 
and unable to write all I wish 

We are having public devotions to the Sacred Heart 
every day this month, to beg for peace and tranquillity. 

August has been a most disastrous month here until 
now j the people have become superstitious about it. We 
proposed to the priest to have these devotions this month 
in the church, and he acceded to our request with more 
alacrity than I have ever seen him. Although then we 
knew of no certain danger, the very Sunday on which he 
proposed it to the people, while he was preaching, some 
men came flying into the city from a revolution in Chiri- 
qui, the neighboring province, begging succor. Since 
then we are living in hourly expectation of an attack 
here ; but I hope we shall yet escape ; for yesterday, the 
day on which we had the mass of the Sacred Heart, with 
exposition of the blessed sacrament, and in the afternoon 
a " trisagio " in honor of the blessed Trinity, and a pro- 
cession of the blessed sacrament, we received news that 
the government has triumphed and put down the rebels. 

Do, dear Nell, pray that Bernardino's cousins, the 
La Barrieres, may come back from France ; for, if they 
come, they will, please God, bring a chaplain, and per- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 309 

haps their generosity may induce them to bring more 
good priests. Their absence is a great loss to me. We 
saw one another every day, and in all Church matters 
they not only worked, but were most liberal. I wish 
you would obtain all the prayers you can for their decis- 
ion, and for the recovery of the health of the young 
ladies, who, I fear, will not live. 

I have been sent for by a sick friend, and must 
go. # Little Rhoda is better, but I can scarcely leave 
her 

When shall we meet ? When I come home I will try 
to add to this poor letter. 

Ever my darling " Old Nell's " loving sister, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 

It will be remembered that we were favored by a visit 
from Mr. La Barriere, on his way to France. He ex- 
pected to return to Santiago in a short time, and knew 
that Jenny, with impatient hope, looked for his return as 
the dawning of new light upon Santiago. But alas ! just 
as he was stepping upon the vessel, homeward bound, an 
officer placed his hand upon his shoulder, and, with the 
most provoking politeness, told him that the Emperor of 
France needed his services in the army ! There was no 
alternative, and we believe he is still an unwilling slave 

* Dr. Dickson tells us that " when any one in town was dangerously 
ill, they would call out, ' Send for la Nina Jenny.' Her prayers and 
sympathy all needed. She would say to me, ' Now, doctor, tell me in 
time if any of your patients are in danger; I must go to them.' " 
27* 



310 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

to despotic power. The ground of excuse for this strange 
act is that the gentleman had the misfortune of having 
been born in France ! Poor Jenny looks in vain, steamer 
after steamer, for the return of the family. 



Death of Don Santiago — Jenny by his Side. 

Santiago, September nth, 1866. 

My darling Parents, — I have to 

communicate to you the sad and unexpected death of 
Don Santiago. He had been failing two or three months 

past A month before he died he spent all 

night with a dying friend He died very 

suddenly, without a struggle. One of the family a few 
days ago found him in his room praying earnestly. 

It seems as if now there is nothing but sickness and 
death for me to witness. I have been obliged to stand 
at the death-bed of twelve or more persons, really having 
to exhort them in their last moments to contrition. 

On Don Santiago's birthday I sent him a medal of 
Mater Admirabilis. I had an intention for his benefit. 
He put this medal on with great faith, and said, " Only 
in death shall this be taken from me." 

He received extreme unction ; but the priest, not be- 
lieving he could hear or understand him, said nothing to 
him. The doctor, who was with him, said pulsation had 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 311 

ceased, and left him to attend to Julianna, who had 
fainted. I heard of the sudden death, and hurried to 
the room. I determined to say something to him ; and, 
taking the medal off his neck, I blessed him with it, and, 
at the same time, repeated in his ear ejaculations of con- 
trition and supplications for mercy. He gradually re- 
covered, and became for a time much better, and lived 
three hours, to the surprise of every one. I have thought 
perhaps he saw the other world, and that God granted 

the favor of one more act of contrition I 

will not attempt to write more on this subject, my dear 
parents, — I am not able. 

Little Rhoda is well, but I am anxious about her. You 
can't tell what a comfort she is to me ! She can say 
everything now (one year and eight months old), and 

is a perfect little chatterbox Bernardino 

sends love to you. 

My dear parents' loving child, 

Jenny. 



LETTER TO REVEREND B. O'REILLY. 

Reverend dear Father, — Although I have written 
to you several times lately, my dear uncle, I cannot for- 
bear seizing a moment from my many pressing duties to 
tell you that Bernardino and I and many others were very 
much disappointed by your decision against us. . . . 



312 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

I am sure God directs all for the best, and he must 
inspire you in your decisions. We must humbly " suffer 
and wait," and live in the hope that at last our prayers 
may be heard, and that some one will be raised up to 
save this land. 

Can it be that it is to be lost ? And lost when so little 
could save it ? But now, dear father, that you cannot 
come to us, I place it in your hands and on your con- 
science to find us a priest who will come. You, my dear 
uncle, are the only priest, with the exception of Father 
Bias, who takes even the smallest interest in these mis- 
sions 

The principal requisites are an apostolic spirit, love of 
suffering, good judgment, and tact. Trifling requirements 
you will say, dear uncle. 

Will you not search untiringly until you find one or 
more priests willing to come here and devote themselves 
to this work ? I have been obliged to labor cautiously 
and prudently, not to offend or wound some persons here 
from whom we cannot expect all the perfection we need 
that they should possess. Pray for me that I may have 
spiritual wisdom. . . . . . 

I have prepared several little boys this month for their 
first confession, under many difficulties. The parents of 
some were careless, drunken people, and I was anxious 
not to keep the children away from school longer than 
was necessary. I got up early and went with them, to be 
sure they were heard. If we had some good priests 
here, these children could go once a month as they ought ; 
now, how is it possible ? 



JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 313 

Even if a priest could not speak Spanish well, he could 
do a great deal of good. When I was only five months 
here, I established a Sunday school, beginning with a 
private class at my house, being resolved that although I 
could not give very eloquent instructions, I would try to 
make the children understand that there is a heaven and 
a hell j and that to the latter place they would all go, I 
feared, if they did not amend. They managed to under- 
stand me, whether they profited by it or not ; perhaps the 
very strangeness of my mode of expression impressed 
what I said more strongly on their minds. How much 
more could a good priest do ! 

So much is this truth impressed upon one here, that a 
young Spanish cousin of Bernardino's, who is very pious, 
told me, to-day, that since he has returned to his native 
land, and seen what he might do here as a priest, he has 
had serious thoughts of becoming one. 

All this I say, not to urge one who is not called to do 
so ; for I believe so firmly in vocations and the particular 
graces God gives to each one in the state peculiarly in- 
tended for him, that I dare not persuade one to assume 
the duties and responsibilities of so peculiar a position as 
that of a missionary in these countries. It is no easy 
life to which they are invited ; but it is a glorious life. Its 
triumphs are eternal. 

We cannot, I am sure, have a better or more earnest 
friend than you, my dear uncle. 

My efforts to do good here are like those of a person 
who sees a great conflagration, — a burning town, — and 
tries by throwing handfuls of water on the rising flames to 



314 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

extinguish them, and stop their progress. God grant that 
some one may come to our relief. 

You have already heard of the sudden death of my 
father-in-law, Don Santiago. I had almost a fit of sick- 
ness in consequence of the shock it gave me. 

I fear I have imposed upon you unpardonably, dear 
uncle. 

Excuse this miserable letter ; you will do so when I tell 
you it has been written late at night, after a day of much 
labor and neuralgia ; and notwithstanding I have remained 
up late to find the soothing influences of quiet, as dear 
mother has often done, I have had several interruptions. 

I need not recommend myself, Bernardino, and little 
Rhoda to your prayers, for I know we have our place in 
them ; for which we are very grateful. 

Begging your blessing, and a letter when you can write, 
I am, dear uncle, 

Your grateful and affectionate niece, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



Customs for Mourning. 

Santiago, October 26th, 1866. 

My dear Mother, — I am filled with anxiety at hav- 
ing received no letters from home for several mails past, 
particularly as the last received gave me the sad news of 
my darling Minnie's dangerous illness 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAZ. 315 

The whole town is now in mourning for Don Santiago, 
and the family in the deepest grief. Exterior mourning 
is carried here to a great extreme. For friends who die 
in the town light mourning is put on, and you cannot 
even touch the piano for about a month. For cousins, 
etc., this is observed for a longer time. On the death 
of a father or husband, the house is immediately dark- 
ened and closed, and all the houses of the widow of* 
children are completely stripped of eveiy ornament. The 
houses, which are always furnished to our eyes in a com- 
fortless style, you may imagine look barren enough when 
even the glass shades of the candlesticks are put away, 
as seeming too much luxury to appear in a house where 
everything should betoken the gloom of its inmates. 
They take down the bed-curtains, and make mourning 
bed-spreads. From the day of the funeral the ladies of 
the family remain in a darkened room, and there they 
eat and sleep, only praying for the soul of the person de- 
parted, — not going outside the room-door for weeks and 
sometimes months. Babies only a month old are dressed 

in deep black 

Your loving child, 

t enny C, White del Bal. 



Santiago, November 2d, 1866. 

My dearest Father, — I have lately missed your little 
notes of blessing and remembrance j and, knowing how 



316 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

overtaxed you are, I never wish you to write more than 
a line ; but that little line and blessing I do so love to 

receive ! 

Mrs. Sosa desires me to thank you and mother, and 
each one of the family, for your kindness to her good sons, 
Martin and Pedro. I feel very grateful for this attention 
to my Spanish cousins, who made my visit so pleasant in 
Panama, when I came here a stranger. Your example 
and advice, my dear father, will influence their after 

lives, and may be felt in ages to come 

Your child, Jenny. 



Seeing that the weight of the burden which has been 
laid upon Jenny is already pressing too heavily upon her, 
we almost hesitate to go on, lest we find it crush her. But 
He who called her to this work has given her superhuman 
strength, else how can she bear these many cares and 
responsibilities while suffering with debility and neural- 
gia ? Yet, we are assured by Dr. Dickson, " She was ever 
cheerful, and the support of many ; her house was always 
the most attractive of any in the town ; her music was 
our delight, and her conversation charming." 

She tells us that, in this last visit of the bishop, she en- 
tertained him, gave a party at her own house, besides 
other honors paid him in the town, in which she was the 
main mover. We know that all visitors of distinction, of 
either political party, were guests of Bernardino's, and 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL SAL. 317 

went away charmed with " Nina Jenny." Who can fail 
to see that such strength to support these trials of disap- 
pointment and death in Santiago, and the scattering, like 
autumn leaves, of her too-loved "dear ones at home," 
comes from God and is above nature ? It is grace given 
to one called to an especial work of charity, — such 
charity as seems to burn within the heart of this young 
" mother of Santiago." 

With one or two more letters, in which, thank God ! we 
still find her hoping that she may return home, we must 
close another year of her generous labors, and endeavor 
with her to forget the pain and weariness she has endured, 
in the remembrance that He, for whom she toiled early 
and late, has said, " Inasmuch as ye do it unto one of 
these, ye do it unto me." Blessed privilege ! 



Santiago, November 20th, 1866. 

My dear Father and Mother, and each one of my 
dear Family, — I write to-day although we, perhaps, are 
in a revolution, and I trust this to the mail, fearing, if it be 
so, that it may never reach you. Under these circum- 
stances it is so disagreeable to write that I only send this 
circular, begging you all to pray for us. 

The state of the case is this : Mosquera has threatened 
to disarm the State troops, and send national troops 
here. This is so unpopular a measure, that, if carried 
28 



318 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

out, there would inevitably be war. It was understood 
that Mosquera had desisted from his purpose, and no 
national forces would come. 

At once business revived, all looked bright, and every 
one felt a great hope that, at least for a while, we would 
enjoy peace ; when, just as we were flattering ourselves 
with these agreeable hopes, the news cames that the troops 
are hourly expected in Panama. The governor (presi- 
dent here) has resolved to allow them to enter quietly. 
If they are placed at his disposal to maintain order here, 
nothing will be done to resist them ; but if they are only 
responsible to Mosquera, and come to carry out whatever 
he or his party (the negroes) wish, then there will be war, 
— the interior to be the theatre of the war, and Santiago 
its head-quarters. 

It is said (whether true or not) that a worse persecu- 
tion than the former has commenced against the priests, 
and that the Archhishop of Bogota is in prison. One 
of the greatest dangers for Santiago is, that a town 
near here, called San Francisco, is devoted to the Mos- 
quera party, and has vowed vengeance against the San- 
tiagoens. They made common cause with the Caucanos 
last year, and when the latter were defeated in other 
places, invited them there, — offering to lead them here to 
sack the town, and take possession of all it contained, 
including the ladies. It is much to be feared that, when 
they feel they are supported by an armed force of veter- 
ans, they will, when we least expect it, come down upon 
us. All I say is to storm Heaven for us. We are like a 
drowning person, who by your prayers has his head 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 319 

held out of water. Do not weary of us. A boat may 
yet come to our rescue, but, if you falter or lose courage 
in your appeals for us to Heaven, we are lost. Your 
prayers last year were most miraculously answered. 
Even Protestants here said so. We commence to-morrow 
with a solemn high mass, exposition of the blessed sac- 
rament, and novena to the Sacred Heart, and the dolors 
of Maria Santissima for the Church and State. All this 
is gotten up by voluntary contribution. I mean the ex- 
penses are thus defrayed. 

I close and send this with the hope that it may reach 
you. Much love from Bernardino, little Rho, and myself, 
to each one. 

From your ever-loving 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



A LETTER ADDRESSED TO ALL THE FAMILY. 

Santiago, December ist, 1866. 

A happy Christmas and New Year, from one who longs, 
as you cannot know who have never left your home and 
family, to give them in person. But as God wills it, I 
must be content, and hope (blessed privilege !) that some 
future Christmas may find us reunited. 

I include in this greeting my dear Father O'Reilly, 
hoping that he is still with you all. What a blessing to 



320 JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 

you ! what a comfort ! A sad contrast to it our desolation 
presents. Still God is with us, visibly present on our 
altars ; and I trust we may never again be deprived of 
this inestimable favor. 

I told you our well-grounded fears of a new persecu- 
tion of the priests, and another revolution. We immedi- 
ately began a novena in the church, dressed the altar 
beautifully, and had solemn services on the first and last 
day of the novena. 

It was a little singular that day after day persons came 
from Panama, and could tell us nothing of the prospects ; 
but while the last mass was being said, a man arrived, 
saying, that the expected and feared troops could not 
come, for they had been attacked by yellow fever. By 
his delay General Herran will have time to reach Mos- 
quera and remonstrate with him. Also, that Mosquera 
has published a decree declaring all revolutionists sub- 
ject to capital punishment, and confiscation of their prop- 
erty. General Olarte promised, with the blessing of 
Providence, to secure peace to us. 

I doubt not it has been an answer to some good 
prayers, for we have had the most earnest prayers offered 
continually for that intention. Weary not praying for us. 
We are not yet out of danger. 

Please give my love to each one of my family far and 
near (every one is mentioned by name), who still think 
of, and inquire for your 

Ever-loving, exiled 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 321 



Of little Rhoda, now two years old, Jenny writes to 
her sister : — 

To-morrow is my little girl's birthday, — two years old. 
I hope you pray that I may bring her up well. How did 
you dare give such a license to a fond mother as to ask 
her to give anecdotes of her child ? 

Remembering what Jenny was at that age, we hope it 
will not be wearisome to the reader to hear something of 
her own child at the same age. She continues : — 

She is the most loving little creature in the world, — 
says everything, — I am sorry to say, uses even some 
slang expressions so appropriately that it is comical. She 
is very pious, but very fond of dress. Her hair, which is a 
beautiful golden color, curls beautifully. After it is ar- 
ranged, she will not allow any one to touch it, saying, 
"Take care ; you will spoil the arrangement of my hair." 
Her nature is loving. Between Spanish and English 
terms of endearment, she manages to make herself a 
general pet. She urged me so much to take her to mass 
with me, that I did so. She must have made a vow to 
hear it kneeling, for I could not induce her to sit down. 
She watched every one to see when they blessed them- 
selves, and did likewise. When I took holy water, she 
looked horrified at the irreverence, and said, " O mamma ! 
do not touch the water of the saints ! " When I ex- 
plained to her about holy water, she said, "Put some 
28* 



322 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

here (touching a place on her forehead where she had 
received a blow) where I fell yesterday." .... 

I have four visitors in the parlor waiting for me, and 
must close my letter 

I hope to hear better news of dear Sta. May God 
restore her, if it is his will ! 

Remember me to all the ladies in the convent, who do 
not weary of praying for your loving sister, 

Jenny. 



Another year gone, and still we find our little heroine 
laboring on for the salvation of souls ! Every moment 
that can be spared from her duties to her own family is 
devoted to the encouragement of piety among her friends, 
or to the instruction of the poor, who now look to her as 
to a messenger of light from God. But in the following 
letter will be seen a sadness of soul, a weariness of spirit 
which she cannot conceal. Can it be that the labor of 
the day is nearly done, and that with its sunset she will 
lay her down, with her burden still upon her, to rest ? 



Ceaseless Energy — Occupations multiply. 

Santiago, December 10th, 1866. 

My darling Loo, — I hoped to take 

time to have a long chat with you ; but, darling, many dif- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 323 

ferent occupations prevent. Yesterday, Petita was taken 
very ill, and I sat up all night with her, and I have not yet 
been able even to sit down, for my cook had to leave me j 
her child was sick. Our boy was taken ill, and my 
chambermaid had to go home to take care of him. My 
laundress came to me, shaking with chills, to say she 
could not wash this week ! 

Dr. Dickson is also very sick with neuralgia of the 
heart, and I have been there a good deal, as I am the 
only countrywoman he has here, and he says I am about 
as good as a doctor ! In addition to this, I have had to 
superintend a grand novena and celebration we are hav- 
ing for the Immaculate Conception. We have had to 
make flowers and acolytes' robes here, besides teaching 
Aquiline and Juanchito Garcia to serve mass. Besides 
this, I had two god-children come from the country to 
make me a visit, — one to be prepared for her first con- 
fession and communion ; the other to be taught embroid- 
ery. When I go home, will I not make you laugh with 
the amusing stories I can tell you of the country people ! 
Pray, dear Loo, that we may go home, if it be God's will. 
It is impossible to say when, but I live in the hope that 
it is not very far off. 

I wish you could see little Rhoda. Her love for music 
is. extraordinary. General Olarte brought a finer band 
here than the one we had. She knew the difference 
directly, and almost went into extasies when she heard 
them on the plaza. I am very anxious about darling 
Anastasia. God grant she is better ! 

Your ever loving sister, Jenny. 



324 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



Santiago, February gth, 1867. 

My dearest Father, — I have been overwhelmed 
with grief at the sad news of my dear Sta's death ; # 
and although I know it is selfish to grieve for what is so 
surely her gain, still love makes us selfish, and we can- 
not give up our dear ones without a bitter struggle. It is 
so much harder to bear these trials away from you all. . 
. . . . I am still weak, and have to lie down a great 
part of the day. I dare not write to dear Kate, Ann, and 
Geddy ; but do tell them so. 

I have felt more sad than I can tell you, seeing that 
you and dear mother distress yourself so much at my 
absence. You cannot feel it as I do, nor long for the 
reunion more ardently or constantly ; but, my beloved 
parents, for the present year it seems so impossible, that 
it must be the will of God, and we must arouse our faith, 
and hope, and courage, and trust our dear Lord will 
surely give us this happiness ultimately ; for should 
death comes before its realization, to any one of you, it 
seems to me as though this would be so dreadful a trial, so 
agonizing a blow, that though the spirit might and would, 
I trust, bow in submission, poor, weak nature must give 
way, and be crushed, and bruised, and broken by the 
weight it could not bear. 

Little Rhoda just came over to me with her playthings, 
when she saw I was crying, and her little face instantly 

* Her aunt in the Convent of the Sacred Heart. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 325 

assumed a pained expression. She said most earnestly, 
throwing down her playthings, " Don't cry, dear mamma, 
don't cry ! " wiping my eyes and kissing me ; " don't cry 
any more ! " On my smiling, to comfort her, she said, 
" Now, mamma, are you contenta ? " — her face beaming 
again with smiles, — " You will not cry any more ? " Until 
I assured her I would not, she would not return to her 
playthings. 

The picture you draw of a home, when we shall all be 
together again, is too bright it seems for me to anticipate 

in this world I trust our Lord will yet 

grant us its realization 

Our going home is so in the hands of Providence, that 
I feel as though all I can do is to pray, if it be His will, 
and for His glory, that He will open the way to us. 

I wish you would every day, at home, ask with an aspi- 
ration the favor of allowing us to meet, and, I feel sure 
before the year is over some light will come to us. . . . 



Santiago, May loth, 1867. 

My darling Nell, — Living as I do in 

South America, where every one is supposed to be idle 
and lazy, many may think I ought to write to them ; but 
indeed my life is a busy one, without amounting to much 
good, perhaps, in the end. 



326 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

Since the emancipation of the slaves, it is almost im- 
possible to obtain any servants except Indian or negro 
girls and boys, who are perfect Topsies, — so idle and 
lazy, that it is more trouble to make them work than you 
can imagine. ... If you leave them long to them- 
selves, you are sure to find them off playing or asleep. 
If I employ older girls, the case is worse • you have to be 
such a duenna to them, that it is far more trouble than 
they are worth. I only keep the older girl I have be- 
cause she is a godchild of mine in confirmation, and 
was sent to me because she was an orphan wandering 
around the country alone. I cannot make her very good, 

and you can imagine what a task I have It 

is impossible to give you an idea of the trouble of house- 
keeping here. ... I have now, for my small family, 
six servants, besides my laundress. Every one of these 
had to be taught their prayers, and prepared for confes- 
sion ; and as they do not stay very long their work is never 
done. All their clothes have to be cut and made in the 
house. 

The climate and soil are so generous to the people 
that but little exertion is necessary for the strict neces- 
saries of life, and beyond them the lower classes do not 
aspire. 

Another troublesome affair, with very little fruit, is try- 
ing to get the country children to confession. The ex- 
amination of conscience and explanation of sins is no 
trifling matter. Then, just as I get a class to understand 
these lessons, some children appear who have heard 
nothing, and again I must begin. I have some children 



JENNY C. WRITE BEL BAL. 327 

in my house every day, preparing them for confession, or 

teaching them their prayers 

I had to take charge of the ceremonies of holy week 
again this year. It was hard to do so, and raise the 
necessary money, for the town was in the greatest con- 
fusion, — filled with troops, and draining the people's 
pockets by forced loans to support the government ; yet 
I could not bear to allow holy week to pass without its 
accustomed ceremonies. I gained my point, but could not 
enjoy any of them myself. On Spy Wednesday I came 
home from church with a high fever, and was sick eight 
days. I particularly regretted losing the watching all 
night on Holy Thursday, which is the devotion I like 
best ; but God preferred that I should be on my back 
with a headache that really gave me some gray hairs ! 
— of course not many ! 

May 30th. — I have not heard from home for several 
mails, which has made me very anxious. I am filled 
with fear on account of my dear father's loss of health, — 
the more so because it is alluded to in so mysterious and 
unsatisfactory a manner. While filled with apprehension, 
I do not really know the true state of the case. Always 
write me the truth and the whole truth. Anything is 
preferable to such agonizing doubt. 

O Nell, do pray that we may return home with our 
own family circle unbroken ! Those who have been 
called away have caused me such sadness that I dare 
not now write of it ; but should still nearer ones be 



328 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

taken, it seems now as though I could not bear it. I 
must change this subject, and use self-control. 

To turn to a more agreeable subject, — let me tell you 
of little darling Rhoda. How I long to have you know 
her ! She is so touchingly demonstrative in her love for 
me and Bernardino, that we tremble lest we may lose 
her. You know how rich in expressions of endearment 
is the Spanish language ; and yet even Spaniards are 
amazed at her language ! She is full of mirth, and fond 
of teasing and joking. I often say she is going to be a 
second Ann Curtayne in power of quoting ; for now she 
knows many songs of the country people, and, when an 
occasion occurs, sings an appropriate snatch of them ! 
She is a perfect little actress in recitation, — is very 
lively, and yet so thoughtful that no one for a moment 
could call her a baby. She is all generosity, and so good 
to the poor people that they really love her. When a 
poor person comes to the door, she does not wait for 
them to ask, but runs to me for money for them, or goes 
to the store-room herself, and comes out with what she 
thinks suitable alms ! She reminds me of Rho's little 
Pamela, in her compassion for the sick. Although she 
is only two years and five months old, she already knows 
many parts of the mass ; and some time ago I saw her 
stop in her play to say a prayer she says in the elevation, 
because she heard the church bells ringing, and supposed 
it to be the elevation, as in truth it was ! 

yune 29th. — To-day and St. John's day are very 
lively here. The racing in the plaza is quite inspiriting. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 329 

Feats are performed, by little boys of six or eight years 
of age, that would be worthy of some of the best eques- 
trians. Sometimes two or more come running across the 
plaza at perfectly breakneck speed, holding hands or 
locking arms ! They begin at daybreak, and do not 
stop till night, — all shouting when they start. Rhoda 
is such a little Spanish girl that she is wild with delight 
on these days. I think I have given you enough of 
Rhoda for one letter ; but the truth is, I am so sorry that 
you do not know her, for she is to others, besides her 
mother, very engaging. 

We have had twelve days of religious exercises, — three 
for peace. Then follows the celebration of Corpus Christi. 

Now that all are devotees of the Sacred Heart, we 
have had a beautful altar of the Sacred Heart dressed, 
and devotion all the month of June, at which I have to 
act as chaplain ! So you see my old title in the family 
has been confirmed by the bishop here ! 

We are struggling on to rebuild the church, and it 
seems a miracle that we are able to do it when the coun- 
try is in such a state. 

When little Rhoda saw us making flowers for the re- 
pository, and collecting lace, etc., she thought that we 
were giving what we liked best, and she came to me and 
said, "Mamma, take a knife and cut off my curls." 
" For what, Rhoda ? " said I. She replied, her face 
beaming with pleasure, "To give them for the reposi- 
tory!" 

My dear sister's loving sister, 

Jenny. 



330 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 



Judge White's Death— Jenny afflicted. 



Santiago, August 2d, 1867. 

My own poor darling Mother, — Although my poor 
heart and head are so suffering that I hardly find it 
possible to write, still' I shall try to nerve myself to the 
task, that you may have the poor consolation of hearing 
from me, my own dearly loved mother, especially as I 
have a better opportunity to send this letter than may 
occur in some time. 

darling mother, what an inexpressible comfort it 
would be to me, could I but be near you and the other 
members of my dear family ! No one can tell what this 
blow has been to me. My dear, my too well loved father ! 
Can it be that I am never more to see him ? It seems to 
me I would not mourn so much if I had only been per- 
mitted to be with him in his last illness. 

It seems so strange that I have shared the sorrow and 
had it in my power to relieve so many of Bernardino's 
family in sickness and in death, and have been with so 
many strangers in their last moments, and yet my own 
darling father was taken from me without my even know- 
ing his danger. 

All I can say is, I do not murmur, because it is the will 
of Him, who sends this cross, that I should suffer, and 
much more I deserve and need. But, oh, how heavy a 
one it is ! 

1 have had a dreadful fear that some one might be 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 331 

taken before I could return, but tried to banish this fear 
from my heart, and trusted that this trial would not be 
required from me. 

Either your letters were lost in which you told me of 
dear father's illness, or you purposely concealed from me 
his true state. I received a letter, when I was in the 
country, speaking of an attack he had, but saying he was 
better j and since then I heard he was in Washington, 
and imagined him well. 

I have been very sad several months, but tried not to 
show it. In one of my last letters I begged to know the 
whole truth ; and your last letter, dearest mother, spoke 
of my dear father's improvement. I envied you all the 
privilege of amusing him and taking care of him, and I 
thought of all the long chats we would have, and how I 
needed his advice on so many points. I passed hours 
thinking of this, and was cheered with the hope that he 
was to be many years spared to us. A week ago to- 
day (26th of July), — a day never to be forgotten by 
me, — I was entirely alone in the house ; Bernardino had 
gone out on business, and Rhoda had gone to Julianna's ; 
the servants were in the kitchen ; I had been quite un- 
well three days, but had just said to myself, " How well 
I feel ! " when I heard the voice of Leopold La Barriere 
calling me, and saying, " Here, I have your letters." I 
ran to the door and snatched them from him, and hurried 
with them to the room in which I have my oratory, as the 
most retired place in which to read them. The mourning 
envelopes startled me, but, looking for your handwriting, 
dear mother, the sight of it reassured me a little. I 



332 JENNY C. WRITE DEL BAL. 

opened your letter, and the first few lines told me the 
dreadful, dreadful truth ! My cries and screams of an- 
guish brought the servants and some of the neighbors to 

me All I could say was " Father ! " " Father ! " 

Oh, how I sighed for home ! 

Little Rhoda tries to console me. She sometimes says, 
"I wish to go to heaven to grandpapa." This morning 
she said to me, " Let me kiss you for grandpapa ; oh, how 
sweet these kisses are to grandpapa ! " 

The 13th of June, the day of my darling father's death, 
I was nearly all day in church. I was so sad I wept con- 
stantly, and when asked to say some prayers I was morti- 
fied, my voice trembled so much. 

Oh, how I try to be resigned, and say, " Thy will be 
done." I opened the " Following of Christ," to try to find 
some comfort, and my eye fell upon, " If thou flingest 
away one cross, without doubt thou wilt find another, 
and perhaps a heavier one." I did not know the cross 
that was awaiting me, — my saintly father ! 

Every one here was as kind as it was possible to be ; 
but in such grief as mine, aid from Heaven alone can be 
of any avail. If I am so crushed by this trial, what must 
you feel, my darling mother ! 

I can only beg of you to be true to yourself, and live 
for your children. 

Your sorrowing child, 

Jenny C. White del Bal. 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 333 



We received but one letter more from Jenny, — that 
one announced the birth of a little daughter, and her 
own good health at the time (18th of September, 1867). 
On the 24th, — six days after, — she bade adieu forever 
to husband, children, and friends, sending loving mes- 
sages to the dear ones at home. Offering her heart to 
God in death, as she had done in life, she sweetly went 
to rest and to immortality 

We can go no further. Our readers will permit us to 
leave the following extracts to tell them what our sorrow 

will not permit us to describe May she 

rest in peace ! 



DEATH OF A DAUGHTER OF THE LATE JUDGE WHITE. 

Only a few months have elapsed since "Laffan" felt 
called upon to notice the death of Judge James W. 
White, of this city, one of the noblest Irish-Americans 
of our time. He now feels it to be his painful duty to 
record the death of a daughter of the late lamented 
judge, — a lady of the highest gifts, and most exemplary 
character, whose life was a social blessing in the sphere in 
which she moved, and whose early demise will bring 
deep sorrow to many a home, besides that now afflicted 
home, whence she went forth, only a few years ago, full 
of life, and hope, and enthusiasm. By the last steamer 
29* 



334 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

from Aspinwall, news of her death was feceived from 
Santiago de Veraguas, New Granada, her late residence. 
A local paper published a notice of her career in that 
ancient town. From this notice we have been furnished 
with the annexed translation : — 



"Letters from Santiago announce the decease of this 
inestimable lady on the 24th of September, a victim to 
yellow fever. To all who, like ourselves, have had an 
opportunity of knowing and appreciating the great gifts 
that adorned her, this most unexpected intelligence has 
all the gravity of a domestic bereavement. 

" Mrs. del Bal was the accomplished model of what a 
/ady should be. Most affable in her manner, and as en- 
lightened as she was pious, she naturally exercised a 
most beneficial influence over the society blessed by her 
presence. She has departed in the bloom of youth, leav- 
ing behind her two infant children. An American by 
birth, she married a native of the Isthmus, and to this 
happy union we have been indebted for the possession of 
this angel of light and purity, — of this rare flower that 
unceasingly shed its perfume on our land. 

" Scarcely had she made her appearance amongst us, 
when, all unconscious of her own power, she won the 
sympathies, the respect, and the admiration of all who 
approached her, who but listened to her, or beheld her for 
a brief space, — of all, indeed, who were in any way 
brought within the influence of her rich qualities of 
mind and heart. 



JENNT C. WHITE DEL BAL. 335 

" It was but quite natural, too, that the society into 
which she had been thus suddenly transported should 
at once feel what an acquisition they had made in the 
new-comer. Nor was it long before they had abundant 
proof of her value and their own correct judgment The 
modest Jenny, with her open and confiding nature and 
winning manner, made an irresistible impression on all 
around her ; while the tone of society in Santiago and 
its standard of intellectual culture were elevated as by 
enchantment, — thanks to the charming stranger ! 

" It is in remembrance of all this varied goodness that 
every eye there now weeps her loss, that her name is in 
every mouth, and that every heart feels a keen pang of 
grief, as the fact comes before them that Jenny is dead. 

" The ill-fated young lady lived but a short time in her 
adopted home. But, during that brief space, the country 
has contracted towards her a debt which neither our 
tears nor lamentations can pay. That heart of pure gold 
was a great heart. It embraced all its fellow-beings in 
this vale of suffering with such ardent charity that their 
united love could not equal hers. 

" We never can call to mind, without a deep sentiment 
of gratitude and veneration, the pious zeal with which 
this angelic lady planned, and founded, and sustained 
(together with a few young ladies of Santiago who de- 
lighted in imitating her), the hospital in which the 
wounded and dying from the bloody fields of Les Bru- 
gas and San Francisco, victors as well as vanquished, 
found charitable hands to soothe their sufferings, and to 
point out to them the road from this life to a better one. 



336 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 

" Oh ! if in the dwelling of the blessed there are posi- 
tions of superior eminence, — - if in heaven there are 
favorite angels, — one of these, and in such a position, 
is Jenny White, who, angel as she was before she ap- 
peared among us, showed herself truly one before she 
took her flight to the spiritual world. May she not be 
unmindful there of those who loved her so well here 
below ! " 

An intimate friend of the family of the late Judge 
White, Miss Mary L. Booth, historian of the city of New 
York, contributed to the " Evening Post," of this city, the 
following sketch of Mrs. del Bal's most useful life : — 

"THE WORK OF A NOBLE WOMAN. 

" To the Editor of the Evening Post : — Many 
persons in this city will be grieved at the news of the 
death of Mrs. Jenny White del Bal, the wife of Don 
Bernardino del Bal, of Santiago de Veraguas, in New 
Granada, and daughter of the late James W. White, of 
this city, who died a few months since. Mrs. del Bal has 
fallen a victim, in the bloom of her youth, to the scourge 
of yellow fever, which has devastated the whole South, 
leaving her husband and two little children to mourn her 
loss, together with the whole community of Santiago, by 
whom she was worshipped, with good reason. 

" During the four short years that this energetic and 
talented young American woman dwelt in this South 
American city, she effected a missionary work which it 
is well worth while to record. Santiago is an old Span- 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 337 

ish town of the Isthmus, containing several thousand in- 
habitants -j but of late it has fallen into stagnation through 
the disorganized state of the country. Mrs. del Bal was 
the first American lady who ever made it her abode. 
Possessed of unusual executive talents and fine accom- 
plishments, as well as a spirit of earnest philanthropy 
and ardent piety, almost immediately on her entrance 
into the listless community she set about working a social 
change. The churches had been closed, the schools 
dissolved, and society disorganized. She rallied the 
people together, opened schools, and formed religious 
societies which labored for the restoration of the churches 
and the revival of religion. She visited the sick and 
dying, sought out and relieved the poor, and so won on 
the hearts of the common people that she became known, 
young as she was, as ' the saint ' and ' the angel of 
Santiago,' and was almost worshipped as a tutelar divin- 
ity. On the anniversary of her arrival in the city, 
which was also her birthday, a public ovation was given 
her; the places of business were closed, and public 
sports were held in the plaza, followed in the evening by 
fireworks, and a splendid entertainment in the public 
hall, where her portrait, painted by order of the muni- 
cipal authorities, was unveiled, and she was presented 
with a laurel crown by a deputation from the Santiago 
ladies. 

" In the succeeding insurrectionary disturbances, after 
the battles of San Brujas and San Francisco, when the 
wounded of both sides were brought into Santiago, 
where no accommodations awaited them, Mrs. del Bal 



338 JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL, 

procured a house from her cousin, caused the wounded 
men to be carried thither, induced the ladies of the city 
to join her, and organized the first military hospital in 
the charge of ladies ever known in that country. ' Here,' 
says Dr. Henry Dickson, who stood by her death-bed, 
and brought the news of her death to her family, ' she 
performed the most heroic services, standing constantly 
by my side, aiding me in amputations and other severe 
operations, dressing the wounds with her own hands, and 
even using the knife herself in case of need, despite her 
delicate and sensitive organization.' She became the 
Florence Nightingale of South America, adored by all 
the wounded, and, such was the public sense of her ser- 
vices, that General Olarte returned thanks to her in the 
official gazette, and a vote of thanks was rendered in the 
assembly of the State. 

" During the civil war in America she steadfastly ad- 
vocated the cause of the North, and organized a patriotic 
demonstration on the Fourth of July in honor of her na- 
tive country. She secured various political reforms from 
the Congress of New Granada, and induced the Bishop 
of Bogota to make divers ecclesiastical changes for the 
benefit of the people. Her zeal was untiring in reform. 
The churches were in ruins ; she solicited materials for 
building a new one, collected all that she desired, and 
the edifice was half completed at the time of her death. 
She fell a victim indeed to humanity. Two of her ser- 
vants were attacked with yellow fever. She was urged 
to send them away ; but refused to turn them out to die, 
and nursed them herself till she in turn was seized with 



JENNY C. WHITE DEL BAL. 339 

the scourge, which terminated her life in the short space 
of four hours. The grief caused by her death was in- 
tense. When it became known that she was ill, a throng 
of people rilled the square in front of her house, kneeling 
and praying for her recovery. At the news of her death, 
the air was rent with their shrieks. Business was im- 
mediately suspended, the stores were closed, and the 
whole city hung in mourning, as for a public calamity. 
In Panama the bishop ordered all the bells in and out 
of the city to be tolled during the whole day for her death. 
The ' Panama Journal ! says : ' This ill-fated young lady 
lived but a short time in her adopted home ; but during 
that brief space the country has contracted a debt towards 
her which neither our tears nor lamentations can pay. 
In remembrance of all her goodness, every eye weeps ; 
her loss and her name is in every mouth.' It is rarely 
that we can chronicle a woman's life so short, yet so full 
of earnest effort and performance." 



APPENDIX 



APPENDIX 



The following letters are a few of the flowers we have 
culled from the chaplet laid upon the tomb of our de- 
parted Jenny. 



FROM THE GIFTED AUTHORESS, MRS. E. F. ELLET, 



The beloved Friend of the Family, and one who knew Jenny in her own Home 
since her Birth. 



My dearest Friend, — I cannot describe to you how 
shocked, almost paralyzed, I am at the terrible news con- 
tained in dear Lucy's letter, which has just been given 
me. 

It is one of those mysterious, awful dispensations, which 
fill us with terror, and which we cannot understand. . . 

Believe me, dear one, my heart is rent with sympathy 
for you. Not for her — the dearly loved, the favored of 
God, who has called her home from her pious labors 
to bliss eternal in His holy presence — would I mourn; 
but you are indeed made in sorrow like unto Him who 
was " stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted." . . . 

343 



344 APPENDIX. 

Dear Jenny, who was coming home to you, has been 
called home to a parent, who cherished her even more 
tenderly than a mother could. Perhaps she and her 

sainted father are watching over you 

My dear friend, I pray for you. She was all goodness, 
and meet for the society of the saints in light. . . . 
Your devoted friend, 

E. F. Ellet. 



The following beautiful tribute of friendship, from our 
well-known American writer, Mary L. Booth, one of 
Jenny's friends in New York, is heartfelt and tender : — 

My dear Mrs. White, — My heart bleeds for you in 
this new affliction which you are called to endure. If I 
did not know how brave you are, I should fear to see you 
sink under it ; but I do know that your loving heart is 
girded about with strength that enables you to meet the 
ills of life with heroic fortitude. 

I thank you for deputing to me the task of paying a 
last tribute to your loved one. What I have been able to 
say, seems to me poor and insufficient ; but volumes would 
be needed fitly to chronicle dear Jenny's beautiful young 
life, — and I, alas, have been forced to content myself with 
condensing mere facts within newspaper compass. I 
would that the task could have been more worthy of her, 



APPENDIX. 345 

whose whole life was devoted to the happiness of the 
world about her, and who can never be forgotten by any 
one who ever came within her influence. 

Words are barren comforters in these seasons, but you 
are sure of my sincere love and sympathy. 
Believe me yours, lovingly, 

Mary L. Booth. 



One of Jenny's young friends, Miss C , had early 

lost her mother, and knew no one to whom she could so 
safely confide the many sorrows of her sorely tried young 
heart as to " the little saint," as her young companions 
called Jenny. 

For a year or more every morning Miss C. joined the 
little band under Jenny's care, who might have been seen 
coming out from their respective homes in Fifth Avenue, 
to go to early mass ; and often, in a walk together on the 
crowded and fashionable promenade, these young girls 
(Jenny the centre one, with eyes cast down), in low voice, 
were repeating the rosary, while they with measured step 
paced their way unmindful of the gay throng around them. 

Little did the passers-by imagine, when they heard the 

low murmur of their voices, that their hearts and thoughts 

were raised at that moment to a higher and holier sphere 

than this which the weary, dusty journey of probation 

presented to them. 
30* 



346 APPENDIX. 

Miss C, now Mrs. Lauer, writes : — 

My poor darling Mrs. White, — What words can 
express to you the intense sorrow and sympathy I feel for 
you in this our mutual great affliction ? 

The news of darling Jenny's death has completely un- 
nerved me, and I can do nothing but recall those happy 
days I have spent with her, and I am constantly reminded 
of her great charity and forbearance with my many faults. 
I look back upon those days as the commencement of my 
happiness in life, and the influence of the example of two 
of the dearest and best of beings, Jenny and Nelly, has 
been often felt in my married life, and has assisted me in 
doing my duty. If I feel her loss so much, what must 
you, her mother, suffer ! 

It seems presumption to pray for Jenny, but I have not 
neglected to pray daily for those dear ones with you. . . 
Your sincere friend, 

Mary S. Lauer. 



LETTER FROM MRS. GENERAL FREMONT. 

My dear Mrs. White, — It was only the fear of in- 
truding upon your sorrows that prevented my writing when 
I saw Mrs. del Bal's death had added to that you had 
alreadv to bear. 



APPENDIX. 347 

I feel it a great mark of regard from you that you 
should have included me among those to whom you send 
that rare record of so young a life. 

I have already not only seen it, but read it aloud and 
sent two copies to young friends of mine, who have the 
elements of the same heroic unselfishness. 

Lately, in arranging papers. I came upon a letter from 
Judge White, sent with, and explaining, the medal which 
you and some other true loyal women sent to the General 
in the early part of the war. I thought then I would send 
it to you to read ; but some day later when I can attend to 
it well I will lend it to you. I shall like to have it to keep 
with your letter and your daughter's brief biography; 
they make a touching record of good deeds and good 
will 

Judge White's letter and your little medal I had put 
with our family record of the war, which will keep my 
children remembering who were friends to the country in 
its dark days, and who were friends to their father also. 
I shall ask it back when I send it to you. 

Lilly joins me in warm remembrances to all your 
family. 

I do not attempt to express the feeling with which the 
General as well as myself heard of your first loss. 

Yours was a true home, and the loss to you is beyond 
all earthly comforting. 

Sincerely yours, 

J. B. Fremont. 



348 APPENDIX. 



LETTER FROM MRS. JUDGE BOSWORTH. 

New York, Monday Morning. 

Dear Rhoda, — I was both shocked and pained to 
hear of dear Jenny's death. Two bright lights have been 
this year extinguished in your family. God indeed is 
visiting you, my poor heart-broken friend 

Your darling child was willing to die. . . . . I 
think she was perfect from her youth to her death. A 

more lovely character never lived God will 

sustain you, dear Rhoda. What a happy thought that we 
will again meet these dear ones in heaven ! . . . I 
long to console you ; do come and see me. I am so ill 
I can scarcely hold my pen. 

Your attached friend, 

Frances E. Bosworth. 



A young lady friend, of Binghamton (Jenny's birth- 
place), writes to her mother of Jenny : — 

Her life was such a noble one ; so full of thought for 
the welfare of others ; so devoted to the sick and dying ; 
so earnest in her religious duties, and in every good work, 
that there can be nothing in the remembrance of her but 
what is beautiful and lovely ! 



APPENDIX. 349 

Such a record is not often found, and need. not be long. 
She has entered into rest, having finished her labors, and 
" her works do follow her." 

My sisters join me in heartfelt sympathy for yourself 

and family, 

Yours sincerely, 

Julia C. Andrews. 



The Bishop of Panama, for whom, it will not be forgot- 
ten, Jenny prepared so heartfelt a welcome to Santiago, 
in writing to Rev. B. O'Reilly respecting the appoint- 
ment of a priest from the United States to Santiago, takes 
the opportunity to speak of Jenny as follows : — 

Panama, 1868. 

Dearest Brother and Sir, — I have just received 
with the greatest pleasure the letter in which you kindly 

recommend to me a respectable priest, Rev. F. B , 

whom you know so well, and hold so dear. 

Truly, I can never sufficiently thank you for the un- 
wearied zeal with which you have always encouraged and 
fostered the pious designs of that venerated and holy 
lady, Jenny White del Bal. Moreover, I gladly assure you 
that the inhabitants of this country will never forget the 
dear and sweet memory of that most distinguished lady ; 
nor will they ever cease to look with extraordinary affec- 
tion upon all who are her relatives and friends. 



350 APPENDIX. 

Do not, for a moment, doubt but I shall receive your 
friend and companion with heartfelt kindness and 
brotherly charity. In so doing I seek my own interest. 
Wherefore, it shall ever be my especial care to attend to 
all that may relate in any way to his comfort. 

May our Lord and the Blessed Virgin Mary be ever 

with you ! 

Brother Edward O. P., 

Bishop of Panama. 



FROM MR. GREELEY'S ELDEST DAUGHTER. 

Chapapqua, i%th October, 1867. 

Dear Mrs. White, — You cannot think how grieved 
and surprised we were to hear of the death of dear Mrs. 
del Bal. 

I have seldom seen mamma so much affected. " Dear 
Jenny," she said, " whom I remember as such a dear little 
girl, and who grew up such a noble, good woman." 

Father was very sad also, for both he and mamma loved 
Mrs. del Bal, or Jenny as they always called her, very 
much. They feel very much for you in your double loss. 

With deep sympathy and affection, believe me, dear 
Mrs. White, 

Yours most sincerely, 

Ida L. Greeley. 



APPENDIX, 351 



LETTER FROM S. P. CHASE. 

Washington, November ist t 1867. 

My dear Mrs. White, — The good 

leave the earth, and the earth mourns ; but heaven re- 
joices 

Accept my heartfelt sympathy in your bereavement ; 
but console yourself with thinking that, if earthly coro- 
nals are of laurel, intermingled with cypress, the heavenly 
are of immortal amaranth only. 

Most sincerely, your friend, 

S. P. Chase. 



LETTER FROM CARNEY HOSPITAL. 

South Boston, November 2>th, 1867. 

My dear Mrs. White, — I know I 

have scarcely the right to address you at a time when 
those endeared to you by long friendship try to console 
you. Still I allow my heart to guide me, and to assure 
you I am not among the last to sympathize with you in 
your grief, and to mourn the loss of your accomplished 
child. 

God has culled the fruit and secured it. And if there 
has been such a concert of praises on earth in honor of 
your daughter, what has it been among the angels and 



352 APPENDIX. 

saints ! And if you send to God worthy of him those 
who have been under your influence and training, how 
mercifully will he receive you, giving you a glorious re- 
ward ! 

I offer my prayers for your child, if she need them yet, 
and for you, that you may realize how much our heavenly 
Father loves you, because he afflicts you so much, — al- 
though giving you a consolation, refused to so many, that 
of knowing yours to die like the saints. 

Ever your respectful and thankful friend, 

S. Buteux. 



LETTER FROM MRS. LINCOLN. 

Chicago, November 21st, 1867. 

My dear Mrs. White, — I cannot express to you how 
heartfelt my grief was on receiving the obituary notice of 
your beloved daughter's death. 

I know by experience how powerless words are to con- 
sole us in our fearful, irreparable bereavements. God 
alone can administer comfort in the trying hour of afflic- 
tion, and soothe the anguish of our broken hearts. 

I remember your lovely daughter so distinctly, — pos- 
sessed of so much loveliness and talent, and so highly 
accomplished. " Death truly loves a shining mark." 
Believe me, on learning the painful news which brought 
so much sorrow to you, I sympathized with you in my 
tears and prayers. 



APPENDIX. 353 

How desolate we both have been made these last few 
years ! Overwhelmed by my great, great sorrow, I am 
prepared fully to share the afflictions of all those who are 
called to sustain them. 

I have thought of late, whilst enduring the persecu- 
tions with which I have recently been assailed, that our 
heavenly Father had brought them upon me to divert 
my mind from the troubles that have fallen so heavily 
upon me. 

It is the lot of humanity to suffer ; otherwise we would 
cling too fondly to earth and its transitory enjoyments. 

I will, my dear Mrs. White, direct my letter according 
to the card you sent me, not knowing if you have re- 
turned to town. 

Hoping to hear from you at your leisure, 
I remain truly yours, 

Mary Lincoln. 



LETTER FROM MRS. INEZ AROSEMENA FABREGA. 

Panama, December \st t 1867. 

Dear Madam, — Although I have not the pleasure of 
being personally acquainted with you, yet I hope you will 
not hold it intrusion if I now address myself to you, to 
tell you how deeply I and mine have felt our dear Jenny's 
loss. 

My mother-in-law's love for her was a perfect passion, 
and, as for me, words cannot express how I cherished her 
31 



354 APPENDIX. 

as a friend, and reverenced her as a saint. Yes, my 
dear madam, your departed daughter was a saint. 

I believe her coming to Santiago was because of a mis- 
sion which she forcibly felt ; and, as if she had a presenti- 
ment that the time given her for fulfilling it would be 
short, she never rested a moment in her labor of love. I 
am sure that, even in her sleep, the thought of how she 
might benefit the cause of religion in her adopted coun- 
try was working in her mind ; for I know that there was 
not a circumstance, not a conversation, which, with her 
usual tact, she did not turn to some account. 

There was ever some urgent work for her to do, — either 
a hardened sinner's death-bed to visit, or a pressing cor- 
poral necessity to relieve, or the bishop or parish priest 
to be feted ; but what took up the greater part of her 
time and thoughts was the care for the children's religious 
education; and we hope she has left the good seed in 
many a young heart which, sooner or later, will spring 
up and bear fruit. 

She regretted even the moments she gave herself for 
necessary rest ; and I am sure she would have gone 
without food or sleep, if it were possible 

I cannot but believe this constant strain upon her mind 
and nerves undermined her constitution, and rendered 
her unequal to grapple with the fearful disease which 
carried her to an early grave ; so that it needs no fancy 
of love to imagine that, among the flowers that adorn 
her immortal crown, the red rose of martyrdom is not 
wanting. 

Like every reformer, she had her inevitable trials, 



APPENDIX. 355 

though, strange to say, neither envy nor jealousy ever 
marred her work with their poisonous breath, for she was 
universally beloved. 

That her reward might be complete, I cannot but think 
God ordained that she should suffer here. He seemed 
to have spared her life just long enough to receive the 
fatal blow of her dear father's death. Just six days before 
her death she wrote to me : "I cannot tell you how I 
long to see you, my dear friend, nor what a comfort your 
presence would be to me. I feel so perfectly crushed by 
the awful blow that has fallen upon me, that, although I 
try to be, and I trust I am, resigned, I cannot rouse my- 
self. The world is changed for me completely. So idol- 
ized as I have ever been by dear father, and loving him 
as I did with, I may say, almost a religious veneration, — 
think how I must feel to know I never more can meet 
him, and that I was denied the sad privilege of being 
with him in his last moments." 

You see how meekly she bore her cup ; and so, when 
the Bridegroom came, he found her ready for the marriage 
feast 

I hope you will always consider me as one of your 
dear daughter's most loving friends, and, as such, 

Yours respectfully and affectionately, 
Inez A. de Fabrega. 



356 APPENDIX. 



LETTER FROM F. BELANGER. 

Woonsocket, January 7th, 1868. 

Respected Madam White, — The many unmerited 
tokens of kindness and charity you have given me, dur- 
ing your stay at Woonsocket, I shall indeed never 
forget 

You have allowed me to read the manuscript of the 
life of your incomparable daughter, Mrs. Jenny C. White 
del Bal. Permit me to beg of you not to be deterred, by 
any difficulty that can possibly be overcome, from giving 
the public, of every creed, an opportunity of admiring, as 
I have done, the great virtues and heroic courage of your 
beloved daughter. The admiration of your readers will 
not be a sterile one, be sure. It will doubtless impel 
more than one of them to strive in imitating the devoted- 
ness of your good and dear Jenny. 

In the high heaven she will delight in gazing upon 
the continuation of the work she has had so much at 
heart, — namely, the glory of our Divine Lord and the 
salvation of immortal souls. 

Accept the expression of my sincere respect. Your 
humble and obedient servant in Christ, 

F. Belanger. 



APPENDIX, 357 



FROM THE VENERABLE AND RESPECTED COL. 
JAMES A. HAMILTON, 

Son of the ever-revered Alexander Hamilton. 

Nevis, January 29th, 1868. 

My dear Lady, — Your note, without date, was re- 
ceived to-day, bearing Mary L. Booth's most interesting 
account of the services and decease of your illustrious 
daughter, Madam del Bal. It is very rare to find such 
energy, intelligence, and excellence combined. 

My heart sympathizes in your great sorrows, and I 
pray to our Father in heaven to give you strength, — 
which I am sure he will do. 

Thank Father O'Reilly for his good offices. Do me 

the favor to present my regard to him. May God 

bless you! 

Affectionately, your friend, 

James A. Hamilton. 



LETTER FROM VICOMTE DE CHABROL, 

Paris, 72 Rue de Varennes, April i%th> 1868. 
Madam, — As I had the honor of assuring you in my 
last letter, I am confident of the success of the very in- 
teresting book which you intend to publish, as well as of 
31* 



358 APPENDIX. 

the great good it is calculated to do. It is a point of 
great usefulness to make known to us here in France the 
admirable features and characteristic virtues of our Cath- 
olic brethren in America. It is most especially desirable 
that we should be made acquainted with their success. 

In France what we lack is neither virtue nor self- 
sacrifice. Still less is it among ladies of the very highest 
rank that one can find any deficiency in this respect. In 
the most exalted ranks of society there shine forth, amidst 
all the allurements of luxury and a life refined by the 
most ancient traditions of family splendor, habits of self- 
imposed poverty, of abnegation, and practical charity, 
which one can never sufficiently admire. These, there- 
fore, are not the virtues that we need. 

What we do want is confidence in ourselves. The 
Catholics of France have lost courage, — they daily see 
their faith attacked on all sides, and threatened in every 
manner. Hence they fail in that confidence which 
should ever be entertained by persons of energetic will, 
trusting in the providence of the God for whom they 
labor. To show them a young lady, who, in a strange 
country, — in a country where corruption abounds, — 
succeeded in effecting so much good, is assuredly to hold 
up an example which shall not be lost upon them. 

For these reasons, I think, it will be a labor of great 
usefulness to translate into French the book which you 
have had the courage to write. But, as I did myself the 
honor to state in a former letter, I cannot now give you 
any precise information on the translation itself, or the 
publication of the work here, or on the rights reserved to 



APPENDIX, 

the author, until I shall have in hand a copy of the life 
of Mrs. del Bal. I must first of all submit it to the judg- 
ment of competent persons, and, above all, I must find 
out the best publisher : all of which I can only do, when 
I have the book itself. 

If my personal action were alone needed, the advance 
proof-sheets would be quite sufficient for my purpose ; but 
as I must make the work known to many persons, it will 
be better to wait for the book itself. Father O'Reilly, 
who is well acquainted with the way the Parisian press is 
conducted, can easily explain all this to you. 

I hope, dear madam, that as soon as the first copies of 
the book are printed, you will be so kind as to send me one 
or two ; then you can rely upon my zealous co-operation 
in your noble undertaking, as well as upon my candid 
opinion about the probable success which your book may 
have in France. 

I should feel much obliged to you if you could give me 
the address of Father O'Reilly. I wish to continue with 
him in the pleasing personal relations which shall always 
recall the interesting hours we spent together last year. 

Accept, I pray you, madam, the renewed expression of 
my most distinguished sentiments. 

VlCOMTE DE CHABROL. 



360 APPENDIX, 



The echo of Jenny's voice — "Pray send us good 
priests " — is yet heard from Panama and Santiago. 
The most urgent appeals continued after her death, and 
still continue, to be made to Mrs. White in New York : 
" I beseech you, interest yourself, and send us priests." 

LETTER FROM INEZ AROSEMENA FABREGA. 

February 22d, 1868. 

My dear Madam, — His lordship our 

Bishop cordially invites Father Belanger to join us. He 
would wish him to remain in Panama until he will be- 
come better acquainted with the country, and then decide 
himself where he would wish to go 

I hope these reverend gentlemen, Father Belanger and 
Father Gilbert, will make up their minds to suffer all 
things in the name of our Lord, and fancy they are com- 
ing to a mission among the Indians. 

This brings to my mind a little incident in the life of 
our beloved Jenny, which proves what an optimist her 
faith and her charity made of her. When she had been 
but a few months in Santiago, the season of Lent com- 
menced. It is customary, during that time, to have the 
Via Crucis through the streets on Tuesday and Friday. 
This in itself is really a touching ceremony; but the 
poor reading of the stations, and, above all, the wretched 
singing, would make it to an indifferent person almost a 
parody. 



APPENDIX. 361 

We all thought dear Jenny, with her wonderful talent for 
music, would feel disagreeably, when, to our surprise, she 
rose from her knees bathed in tears of devotion, and said 
to me, " You who are used to these ceremonies cannot 
imagine the impression this worship in the open air pro- 
duces upon me. I fancy I really see our Lord walking to 

Calvary, followed by the crowd." I do 

not know if you have heard all of Jenny's last words ; 
they are a treasury you would not like to lose, and I will 
repeat some of them. 

She said to her husband, " Bernardino, I am dying, arid 
it is time you should bring me the children to give them 
my last blessing;" then she thought a moment and added, 
" I think it is better you should bless them in my name." 
I suppose she feared that the sight, of her two little girls 
would distract her mind from the contemplation of heaven. 
She thought I would be the best person to break the news 
of her death to her family. (What strength of mind !) 
"Tell Nina Mica," my mother-in-law, and Inez, that w„t 
shall see each other in heaven," she said to Bernardino. 

Are not these words of hers like a passport for us U 
the kingdom of her Father ?..... 

I hope, dear Mrs. White, you will never forget in your 
prayers this poor country, for which your saintly daughter 
worked so untiringly, and especially do I implore them 
for her unworthy friend. 

Yours sincerely, 

Inez Arosemena Fabrega. 



362 APPENDIX. 



It will be remembered, by our readers, that Mrs. 
Fabrega (mother of Inez Arosemena Fabrega) was al- 
most a second mother to Jenny, and Inez took the place 
of a sister in her heart. 

Jenny's last messages were to her husband and family ; 
not one forgotten ; but they are too sacred to reveal to 
others than those to whom this " treasury " was be- 
queathed. It is not necessary to add that her death was 
calm and peaceful, as had been the last moments of her 
saintly father, three months before this fatal hour. 

The gloom and mourning, which her death caused every 
where in the town and miles distant from it, had never 
been felt before on any occasion. 

One of the members of the Legislature wrote of her, in 
the Panama press, as follows : — 

" The unexpected announcement of the death of this 
inestimable lady, Jenny C. White del Bal, is a great social 
calamity. 

" Mrs. del Bal was a perfect model of what a lady 
should be. Of most affable manners, as intelligent as she 
was pious. She exercised a most salutary influence upon 
society whenever it had the happiness to possess her 
presence. Rich in the endowments of mind and heart, 
every one felt, who saw and listened to her, that her 
adopted country had gained much in the acquisition of 
such a lady, whose life soon gave proof that this was no 
false estimate of her worth. 

" The modest Jenny, with her frank and confiding 






APPENDIX. 363 

character, and her pleasant and fascinating manner, easily 
imprinted her own disposition upon every one around her. 
The society of Santiago was elevated as if by enchant- 
ment, — thanks to the engaging young stranger. 

"But now, alas ! every eye weeps ; every heart is pained. 
Upon every lip is her name, — Jenny is dead ! . . . 

" What this country owes her, no sighs, no tears, can re- 
pay. What her great heart gave to us in charity, our 
united love could never return. 

" We can never call to mind, without feelings of venera- 
tion and gratitude, the pious zeal with which this angelic 
lady, undertook, founded, and sustained (accompanied 
by a few young ladies of Santiago, who took pleasure 
in imitating her example) the hospital, in which the 
wounded and dying from the bloody fields of Las Brujas 
and San Francisco, victors, and vanquished, found their 
pains alleviated, and a new and better life than this 
pointed out to them. 

" Oh, if there are angels more favored than others in 
heaven, as well as on earth, one of these must be Jenny, 
who is now, we believe, with the blessed above, and to 
whom we pray that she will not forget us, who loved her 
so well." 



H107 75 



4 



4,^*£1}W 








vv 



. ^* A 















N. MANCHESTER 



